Rectus Capitis Posterior Minor - Podcast Version 0:00 / 0:00 1x 0.25x 0.5x 0.75x 1x 1.25x 1.5x 1.75x 2x The rectus capitis posterior minor is a suboccipital muscle of the neck. It is the smallest of the rectus capitis muscles and is located medially to the rectus capitis posterior major. Attachments: Originates from the posterior tubercle (a rudimentary spinous process) of the C1 vertebra. Attaches to the medial part of the inferior nuchal line of the occipital bone. Actions: Extension of the head. Innervation: Suboccipital nerve (posterior ramus of C1). Blood Supply: Vertebral artery and deep descending branches of the occipital artery By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2026) Fig 1The left occipital muscles, which lie underneath the deep muscles of the back. 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 Pro Feature - Dissection Atlas Dissection of the suboccipital muscles of the neck Dissection of the suboccipital muscles of the neck You've Discovered a Pro Feature Access our Dissection Image Library Enhance your understanding with high-resolution dissection images showcasing real-life anatomy. Learn More Frequent questions What is the rectus capitis posterior minor? The rectus capitis posterior minor is a small suboccipital muscle located in the neck, specifically medial to the rectus capitis posterior major. It plays a role in extending the head. Where does the rectus capitis posterior minor originate? This muscle originates from the posterior tubercle of the C1 vertebra, which is a rudimentary spinous process. Its specific location is crucial for its function in head movement. What is the primary action of the rectus capitis posterior minor? The primary action of the rectus capitis posterior minor is to extend the head. This movement is essential for various activities, including looking upwards. Which nerve innervates the rectus capitis posterior minor? The rectus capitis posterior minor is innervated by the suboccipital nerve, which is the posterior ramus of the C1 spinal nerve. This innervation is vital for muscle contraction and function. What is the blood supply to the rectus capitis posterior minor? The blood supply to the rectus capitis posterior minor is primarily from the vertebral artery and the deep descending branches of the occipital artery. This vascularisation supports the muscle's metabolic needs. Rate This Article