Trunk (thorax, abdomen, back)

Splenius Capitis

Musculus splenius capitis

Origin

Ligamentum nuchae and spinous processes of C7-T3/T4

Insertion

Occipital bone (lateral part of the superior nuchal line)

Function

Bilaterally: extension of the head; unilaterally: lateral flexion and ipsilateral rotation of the head

Innervation

Dorsal rami of the middle cervical spinal nerves (C3-C4)

Movement & chain

Unilaterally produces lateral flexion and ipsilateral rotation of the head; bilaterally produces extension, working together with semispinalis capitis.

Palpation

Palpable at the side of the neck, deep to sternocleidomastoid, during extension or rotation of the head against resistance.

Clinical

Often involved in cervicogenic headache and neck stiffness, together with the trapezius and levator scapulae.

Segmental innervation

Dorsal rami C3-C4.

In clinical practice

A common site of myofascial trigger points that refer pain to the back of the head and temple, relevant in the treatment of tension headache.

Region in the model

Trunk (thorax, abdomen, back)