Splenius Capitis

Written by Sharanya Bhaskaran

Last updated January 7, 2023 • 3 Revisions •

The splenius capitis is a deep muscle of the back. It is part of the spinotransversales muscle group and is located on the posterior aspect of the neck, covering the deep neck muscles.

  • Attachments: Originates from the lower part of the ligamentum nuchae, and the spinous processes of C7 – T3/T4 vertebrae. The fibres attach to the mastoid process and the occipital bone of the skull.
  • Actions: Rotate head to the same side.
  • Innervation: Posterior rami of spinal nerves C3 and C4.
  • Blood Supply: Muscular branches of the occipital artery from the external carotid artery.

Fig 1
The splenius muscles, located with the superficial layer of intrinsic back muscles.

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