Anterior Scalene - Podcast Version 0:00 / 0:00 1x 0.25x 0.5x 0.75x 1x 1.25x 1.5x 1.75x 2x The anterior scalene is one of the scalene muscles of the neck. It is located deep to the sternocleidomastoid muscle on the lateral aspect of the neck. Attachments: Originates from the anterior tubercles of the transverse processes of C3-C6 and attaches onto the scalene tubercle (on the inner border of the first rib). Function: Elevation of the first rib. Ipsilateral contraction causes ipsilateral lateral flexion of the neck, and bilateral contraction causes anterior flexion of the neck. Innervation: Anterior rami of C5-C6. Blood Supply: Ascending cervical branch of inferior thyroid artery By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2026) Fig 1The anterior, middle and posterior scalene muscles of the neck Pro Feature - 3D Model You've Discovered a Pro Feature Access our 3D Model Library Explore, cut, dissect, annotate and manipulate our 3D models to visualise anatomy in a dynamic, interactive way. Learn More Frequent questions What is the anterior scalene muscle? The anterior scalene is a muscle located in the neck, positioned beneath the sternocleidomastoid muscle. It is one of the scalene muscles and plays a role in neck movement and rib elevation. What are the attachments of the anterior scalene muscle? The anterior scalene originates from the anterior tubercles of the transverse processes of cervical vertebrae C3 to C6 and attaches to the scalene tubercle on the inner border of the first rib. What is the function of the anterior scalene muscle? The anterior scalene elevates the first rib and aids in neck movement; unilateral contraction results in lateral flexion to the same side, while bilateral contraction facilitates anterior flexion of the neck. What nerves innervate the anterior scalene muscle? The anterior scalene muscle is innervated by the anterior rami of the C5 and C6 spinal nerves, which provide the necessary motor control for its functions. What is the blood supply to the anterior scalene muscle? The anterior scalene receives its blood supply from the ascending cervical branch of the inferior thyroid artery, ensuring it gets the oxygen and nutrients needed for its activity. Rate This Article