Splenius Capitis Muscle

Splenius capitis or splenius muscle (head) is located at the posterior area of the neck. This muscle has an elongated, band-like structure. Its point of origins include the posterior neck ligament (Ligamentum Nuchae), spinous process of seventh cervical vertebra (C7) , and spinous process of the first four thoracic vertebra . Basically, it stretches from the base of the skull, and from the vertebrae in the neck and upper thorax. The muscle fibers of the splenius capitis are directed at the sides and upward. The said muscle fibers are inserted to the skull, specifically at the mastoid process of the temporal and the occipital bone, and into the spine (first to third cervical vertebrae). This muscle is innervated by the posterior primary rami, nerves in the spine located at the third (C3) and fourth (C4) cervical vertebrae.

Posterior View

Galea Aponeurotica Occipitalis Muscle Semispinalis Capitis Muscle Splenius Capitis Muscle Frontalis Muscle Temporal Muscle Trapezius uscle Masseter Muscle Buccinator Muscle Depressor Anguli Oris Muscle

Splenius Capitis Muscle

PHYSIOLOGY OF SPLENIUS CAPITIS MUSCLE

The splenius capitis muscle works together with the other muscles in our head and neck to create different movements and maintain your head in an upright position. It is also referred to as the neck extensor muscle because of its involvement in extending and hyperextending the head and neck muscles. It also helps in some flexion and rotation of the said muscles. This allows movements such as shaking the head. The splenius capitis also helps in opening our mouth by allowing the downward movement of the lower jaw. If this muscle is involved in any disease or injury such as in Splenius Capitis Muscle Syndrome, the head and neck areas will be greatly affected.

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