Rectus Capitis Posterior Major Detail

musculus rectus capitis posterior major detail

Rectus capitis posterior major is the larger of the two rectus capitis posterior muscles, forming the superomedial wall of the suboccipital triangle. Its myodural bridge connections to the spinal dura are clinically significant.

Nerve: Suboccipital nerve — dorsal ramus of C1 Blood Supply: Vertebral artery muscular branches Region: Neck

Anatomical Data

Origin, Insertion & Supply

Origin	Spinous process of the axis (C2)
Insertion	Inferior nuchal line — lateral portion
Nerve Supply	Suboccipital nerve — dorsal ramus of C1
Blood Supply	Vertebral artery muscular branches

Biomechanics

Function & Actions

Actions	Extends the head; Ipsilateral rotation of the head at the atlantooccipital joint; Forms the medial boundary of the suboccipital triangle

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

Myodural bridges from rectus capitis posterior major to the cervical dura have been demonstrated anatomically — these connections may transmit muscle tension to the dura, potentially contributing to tension-type and cervicogenic headaches. Its denervation from C2 compression produces suboccipital pain.

Palpation

Palpated as part of the suboccipital muscle mass immediately below the occiput during resisted head extension.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Rectus Capitis Posterior Major Myodural Bridge Tension

Muscle tension transmitted via myodural bridges from the rectus capitis posterior major to the cervical dura, potentially contributing to cervicogenic headache and dural traction.