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.
By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2024)
Fig 1 – The splenius muscles, located with the superficial layer of intrinsic back muscles.