Rectus capitis lateralis
Neck
Deep muscle — it lies under other muscles. X-ray makes the muscles over it see-through.
- Origin
- Upper surface of the transverse process of the atlas (C1)
- Insertion
- Jugular process of the occipital bone
- Action
- Bends the head to the same side
- Nerve supply
- Anterior rami of the cervical spinal nerves (C1–C2)
A short muscle at the side of the topmost neck joint. It tilts the head sideways and steadies the joint between the skull and the first vertebra.
Rectus capitis lateralis anatomy page →