The lateral head of the sternocleidomastoid arises by a broad, flat aponeurotic tendon from the superior surface of the medial third of the clavicle. The two heads merge before inserting onto the mastoid process, forming the characteristic V-shape visible at the anterior neck base.
The clavicular head is more susceptible to strain from whiplash injury than the sternal head due to its broader, flatter attachment. The gap between the two heads forms the lesser supraclavicular fossa, through which the external jugular vein is visible. Hypertrophy of the clavicular head is common in wrestlers and contact sport athletes.
Traction injury to the broad clavicular attachment from whiplash or direct trauma producing lateral neck pain and restricted contralateral rotation.
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