All iLive content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.
We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable media sites, academic research institutions and, whenever possible, medically peer reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses ([1], [2], etc.) are clickable links to these studies.
If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please select it and press Ctrl + Enter.
The spinous muscle
Medical expert of the article
Last reviewed: 07.07.2025
The spinal muscle (m. spinalis) is the most medial of the three parts of the muscle that straightens the spine. The muscle is directly adjacent to the spinous processes of the thoracic and cervical vertebrae. This muscle is divided into the spinal muscle of the chest, the spinal muscle of the neck, and the spinal muscle of the head.
The spinalis thoracis muscle (m. spinalis thoracis) originates with three or four tendons on the spinous processes of the second and first lumbar, and the twelfth and eleventh thoracic vertebrae; it is attached to the spinous processes of the upper eight thoracic vertebrae. The muscle is fused with the deeper-lying semispinalis muscle of the chest.
The spinous muscle of the neck (m. spinalis cervicis) originates on the spinous processes of the first and second thoracic, seventh cervical vertebrae and the lower part of the nuchal ligament. The muscle is attached to the spinous process of the second cervical vertebra (sometimes to the third-fourth).
The spinalis capitis muscle (m. spinalis capitis) begins with thin bundles on the spinous processes of the upper thoracic and lower cervical vertebrae, rises upward and attaches to the occipital bone near the external occipital protuberance. This muscle is often absent.
Function: extends the spine.
Innervation: posterior branches of the cervical, thoracic and upper lumbar spinal nerves (CIII-LII).
Blood supply: posterior intercostal arteries, deep cervical artery.
[ What do need to examine?
How to examine?