Anterior Scalene

Description

Illustration of the anterior, middle and posterior scalen

Introduction

• The anterior scalene is one of the Scalene Muscles of the Neck

Origin

• Anterior tubercle of the transverse process of vertebrae C3-C6

Insertion

• Scalene tubercle of 1st rib

Actions

• Elevation of 1st rib (accessory muscle of inspiration)
• Bilateral: Flexion of the cervical spine
• Unilateral: Sidebending and rotation of the cervical spine to the same side

Vascular Supply

• Inferior Thyroid Artery (Ascending cervical branch)

Nerve

• Cervical spinal nerves C5-C7 (Brachial Plexus)
• Cervical Plexus

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Clinical Significance

• Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

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See Also

• Physical Exam Neck
• Neck Anatomy (Main)
• Neck Pain (Main)

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