Splenius Cervicis Anatomy: Origin, Insertion, Action, Innervation
Muscle Anatomy of the Splenius Cervicis Muscle
Origin: Spinous processes and supraspinous ligaments of T3 to T6
Insertion: Posterior tubercles of transverse processes of C1 to C3
Actions: Extention of the cervical spine, lateral flexion of the cervical spine, rotation of the cervical spine
Innervation: Dorsal primary rami of C5 to C7
Blood Supply: Posterior rami of the intercostal and deep cervical branch of costocervical trunk arteries
For pain and symptom information see:
Splenius Cervicis Muscle Actions
Primary Actions of the Splenius Cervicis
1. Extension of the cervical spine when acting bilaterally
Agonists:
- Longissimus cervicis
- Spinalis cervicis
- Semispinalis cervicis
- Iliocostalis cervicis
Antagonists:
- Longus colli
- Scalenus anterior
- Scalenus medius
2. Lateral Flexion of the cervical spine when acting unilaterally
Agonists:
- Scalenus anterior
- Scalenus medius
- Scalenus posterior
- Iliocostalis cervicis
- Semispinalis cervicis
Antagonists: Same muscles on the contralateral side
- Scalenus anterior
- Scalenus medius
- Scalenus posterior
- Iliocostalis cervicis
- Semispinalis cervicis
Secondary Actions of the Splenius Cervicis:
1. Assists with ipsilateral rotation of the cervical spine when acting unilaterally
Agonists:
- Rectus capitis posterior
- Obliquus capitis inferior
Antagonists: Same muscles on contralateral side
- Rectus capitis posterior
- Obliquus capitis inferior
Recommended Beginner Anatomy Books
The Anatomy Coloring Book is one of the best study and reference books for beginning anatomy students. The diagrams are clearly labeled and allow you to see the relationship and placement of the various structures of the body.
The Trail Guide To The Body is another excellent book to help you learn the musculature of the human body. Though the book is geared toward massage therapists and physical therapist assistants, the book with its illustrations and text helps anyone gain a thorough understanding of the human musculoskeletal system and movement. I highly recommend this book for anyone studying anatomy.
Massage Therapist
Owner: thewellnessdigest.com
Twelve years of experience working with clients with chronic pain, post injury pain, and post surgery pain. Muscle dysfunction is often overlooked but can hold the key to many pain conditions.
