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The belt muscle of the neck
Medical expert of the article
Last reviewed: 04.07.2025
The splenius cervicis muscle (m. splenius cervicis) originates on the spinous processes of the III-IV thoracic vertebrae. It is attached to the posterior tubercles of the transverse processes of the two or three upper cervical vertebrae. The muscle covers the beginning of the bundles of the muscle that lifts the scapula from behind. Behind it is the trapezius muscle.
Function of the splenius cervicis muscle: when contracted simultaneously (on both sides), the muscles extend the cervical spine. When contracted unilaterally, the muscle rotates the cervical spine in its direction.
Innervation of the splenius muscle of the neck: posterior nerves of the spinal nerves (CIII-CVIII).
Blood supply of the splenius muscle of the neck: occipital artery, deep artery of the neck.
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