Anatomy of the Cervical Region and Associated Muscles

These flashcards cover key muscles, regions, and structures of the cervical region, based on lecture notes.

Suboccipital Region definition

An area located below the occipital bone at the back of the neck, containing important muscles and structures.

Rectus Capitis Posterior Major definition

A muscle that extends the head and rotates the face to the same side, originating from the spinous process of the axis.

Obliquus Capitis Superior

A muscle that extends the head and bends it to the same side, originating from the transverse process of the atlas.

Longissimus Capitis

A muscle part of the erector spinae group that contributes to head extension and lateral flexion.

Mastoid Process

A bony prominence located behind the ear, serving as an attachment point for several muscles.

Craniovertebral Junction

The area where the skull meets the spinal column, important for head movement.

Greater Occipital Nerve

A nerve that supplies sensation to the back of the scalp, emerging from the dorsal ramus of C2.

Ligamentum Nuchae

A fibroelastic ligament that runs from the external occipital protuberance to the spinous processes of the cervical vertebrae.

Transverse Process of the Atlas (C1)

A bony projection from the atlas vertebra that serves as an attachment point for neck muscles.

Inferior Nuchal Line

A ridge on the occipital bone that serves as an attachment for some muscles of the neck.

Vertebral Artery

An artery that supplies blood to the posterior part of the brain, found within the suboccipital triangle.

Semispinalis Capitis

A muscle that extends the head and neck, originated from the cervical and upper thoracic vertebrae.

Transversospinalis Muscles

A group of deep back muscles that stabilize and move the vertebral column.

Multifidus Muscles

Deep muscles of the back that play a key role in stabilizing the vertebrae.

Scalenus Muscles

Lateral neck muscles that assist in breathing by lifting the first two ribs.

Atlas

The first cervical vertebra (C1) that supports the head and allows for nodding motion.

Axis

The second cervical vertebra (C2) that allows for rotational movement of the head.

Sternocleidomastoid Muscle

A major neck muscle that allows for rotation and flexion of the head.

Intervertebral Joint

The joint between adjacent vertebrae that allows for flexibility of the spine.

Spinous Process of the Axis (C2)

A bony projection that can be palpated at the base of the neck.

Erector Spinae Muscles

A group of muscles that extend the vertebral column and assist in maintaining posture.