Spenius Cervicis Muscle
Origin:
Spinous processes and supraspinous ligaments of T3 to T6
Insertion: Posterior tubercles of transverse processes of C1 to C3
Actions: Extension of the cervical spine
Innervation: Dorsal primary rami of C5 to C7
Blood Supply: Superior intercostal artery
Primary Actions of the Splenius Capitis
1. Extension of the cervical spine when acting bilaterally
Agonists:
- Longissimus Cervicis
- Iliocostalis Cervicis
- Spinalis Cervicis
- Semispinalis Cervicis
Antagonists:
- Longus Colli
- Scalene (anterior and middle)
The interspinalis assist with extension of the cervical spine.
2. Lateral flexion of the cervical spine when acting unilaterally
Agonists:
- Scalene Muscles
- Iliocostalis Cervicis
- Semispinalis Cervicis
Antagonists: same muscle on the opposite side
- Scalene Muscles
- Iliocostalis Cervicis
- Semispinalis Cervicis
Longus colli and the intertransversarii assist with lateral flexion of the cervical spine.
3. Assists with ipsilateral rotation of the cervical spine when acting unilaterally
Agonists:
- Rectus Capitis Posterior Major
- Obliquus Capitis Inferior
Antagonists: same muscles on the opposite side
- Rectus Capitis Posterior Major
- Obliquus Capitis Inferior
Longus colli also assists with ipsilateral rotation of the cervical spine
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For Pain and Symptom Information see: Splenius Cervicis Headache, Eye Pain, and Blurred Vision
An excellent book for those beginning the study of anatomy. Coloring helps memory retention.
For intermediary anatomy students learning skeletal and muscle structure.
For beginning and intermediary anatomy . Muscle overlays on the human body. Excellent visuals!
