Splenius capitis
Neck
Deep muscle — it lies under other muscles. X-ray makes the muscles over it see-through.
- Origin
- Lower half of the nuchal ligament and spinous processes of C7 to T3
- Insertion
- Mastoid process and the outer part of the superior nuchal line
- Action
- Extends the head; alone, bends and turns it to the same side
- Nerve supply
- Dorsal rami of the middle cervical spinal nerves (C3–C4)
A broad, strap-like muscle wrapped over the deeper neck muscles like a bandage, under the trapezius and sternocleidomastoid. It tilts the head back and turns it toward its own side.
Splenius capitis anatomy page →