Home Body Atlas Muscles Spinalis Capitis
Muscle Head & Skull

Spinalis Capitis

musculus spinalis capitis

Spinalis capitis is the cranial extension of the spinalis column, often blending with semispinalis capitis. It is inconstant in its presence.

Nerve: Dorsal rami of cervical spinal nerves (C2-C3) Blood Supply: Occipital artery Region: Head & Skull
Anatomical Data

Origin, Insertion & Supply

OriginSpinous processes of C7 and T1
InsertionOccipital bone between superior and inferior nuchal lines
Nerve SupplyDorsal rami of cervical spinal nerves (C2-C3)
Blood SupplyOccipital artery
Biomechanics

Function & Actions

ActionsExtends the head on the neck; Ipsilateral lateral head flexion
Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

Part of the deep nuchal musculature relevant in posterior skull base surgery. Denervation contributes to suboccipital pain syndromes and post-surgical headache.

Palpation

Palpable as the deepest layer of the central nuchal mass during resisted head extension.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Spinalis Capitis in Suboccipital Pain

Deep nuchal muscle involvement contributing to suboccipital headache, managed by suboccipital muscle release and occipital nerve block.

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