Scalenus posterior
Posterior scalene · Neck
Deep muscle — it lies under other muscles. X-ray makes the muscles over it see-through.
- Origin
- Back tubercles of the transverse processes of C4 to C6
- Insertion
- Outer surface of the second rib
- Action
- Raises the second rib; bends the neck to the same side
- Nerve supply
- Anterior rami of the cervical spinal nerves (C6–C8)
The smallest and deepest scalene, and the only one that reaches the second rib. It helps lift the upper rib cage in deep breathing.
Scalenus posterior anatomy page →