Trunk (thorax, abdomen, back)

Spinalis Cervicis

Musculus spinalis cervicis

Origin

Spinous processes of C7 through T2 (ligamentum nuchae)

Insertion

Spinous processes of the axis (C2) and C3

Function

Extension of the cervical spine

Innervation

Dorsal rami of the cervical spinal nerves

Movement & chain

Part of erector spinae; works together with spinalis capitis and thoracis in extension of the spine.

Palpation

Located immediately adjacent to cervical spinous processes; palpable on deep midline posterior neck exploration.

Clinical

Assists neck extension and stabilizes cervical lordosis; tender in cervical disc disease and facet arthropathy.

Segmental innervation

Dorsal rami C2-T2.

In clinical practice

Ergonomic patient repositioning (log-roll technique in spinal trauma) and pressure offloading; maintain neutral spinal alignment in bedridden patients.

Region in the model

Trunk (thorax, abdomen, back)