Rectus Capitis Posterior Major

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The Rectus Capitis Posterior Major is a member of the Suboccipital Group, which is composed of the:

• Rectus capitis posterior major
• Rectus capitis posterior minor
• Obliquus capitis superior
• Obliquus capitis inferior

ATTACHMENTS:

• The rectus capitis posterior major attaches from the spinous process of the axis (C2) to the inferior nuchal line of the occiput.
• The superior attachment is onto the lateral 1/2 of the inferior nuchal line.

ACTIONS:

• Extends the head at the atlanto-occipital joint.
• Laterally flexes the head at the atlanto-occipital joint.

NOTE: The rectus capitis posterior major lies directly lateral to the rectus capitis posterior minor.