Rectus Capitis Posterior Minor

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The Rectus Capitis Posterior Minor 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 minor attaches from the posterior tubercle of the atlas (C1) to the inferior nuchal line of the occiput.
• The superior attachment is onto the medial 1/2 of the inferior nuchal line.

ACTIONS:

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

NOTE: A tight (overly facilitated) rectus capitis posterior minor contributes to the postural dysfunction pattern of forward head posture, which is part of the larger postural dysfunction pattern of upper crossed syndrome.