Middle Scalene

Written by Max Bidewell

Last updated November 25, 2024 • 5 Revisions

The middle scalene is one of the scalene muscles of the neck. It is the largest of the three scalene muscles and consists of several muscle bellies arising from the cervical spine.

  • Attachments: Originates from the posterior tubercles of the transverse processes of C2-C7. It attaches onto the superior aspect of the 1st rib.
  • Function: Elevation of the first rib. Ipsilateral contraction causes ipsilateral lateral flexion of the neck.
  • Innervation: Anterior rami of C3-C8.
  • Blood Supply: Ascending cervical branch of inferior thyroid artery

Fig 1
The anterior, middle and posterior scalene muscles of the neck

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