Superficial Layer Muscles of the Spine

Anatomical details including origins, insertions, innervations, and actions for the Splenius capitis and Splenius cervicis muscles belonging to the superficial layer of the spine.

Splenius capitis (Origin)

Lower half of ligamentum nuchae and spinous processes of upper thoracic vertebrae

Splenius capitis (Insertion)

Mastoid process of temporal bone and adjacent occipital bone

Splenius capitis (Innervation)

Dorsal rami of cervical spinal nerves

Splenius capitis Action

Bilateral extension of neck and head and unilateral side bending and rotation to same side

Splenius cervicis (Insertion)

Transverse processes of upper cervical vertebrae

Splenius cervicis (Innervation)

Dorsal rami of cervical spinal nerves

Splenius cervicis Action

Unilateral side bending, rotation to same side, and bilateral extension of neck

Splenius cervicis (Origin)

Lower half of ligamentum nuchae and spinous processes of upper thoracic vertebrae