Splenius Capitis

Joe Muscolino

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The splenius capitis. The trapezius has been ghosted in.

ATTACHMENTS:

  • The splenius capitis attaches from the spine to the head.
    • More specifically, it attaches from the nuchal ligament from the levels of C3-C7 and the spinous processes of C7-T4 to the mastoid process of the temporal bone and the lateral third of the superior nuchal line of the occiput.

 

ACTIONS:

  • The splenius capitis extends, laterally flexes, and ipsilaterally rotates the head and neck at the spinal joints.

 

NOTE: When viewed bilaterally, the splenius capitis muscles resemble a golf tee, with the head being a golf ball sitting on it.