The medial head of the sternocleidomastoid arises by a rounded tendon from the anterior surface of the manubrium sterni. This sternal tendon is the primary structural attachment, contributing to ipsilateral neck flexion, contralateral rotation, and accessory inspiration when the head is fixed.
The sternal tendon of SCM can be avulsed in high-velocity neck injuries or during difficult obstetric deliveries, contributing to congenital muscular torticollis. Calcific tendinopathy of the sternal head is a rare but recognised cause of acute anterior neck pain. The tendon is palpable in lean individuals at the sternoclavicular joint.
Calcific or degenerative change at the manubrial origin producing acute anterior neck pain with head rotation, occasionally mimicking cervical disc disease or carotid pathology.
Birth-related injury to the SCM sternal tendon and muscle producing a fibrotic contracture and ipsilateral head tilt apparent in the first weeks of life.
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