Rectus Capitis Lateralis

Description

Rectus capitis anterior and rectus capitis lateralis

Name

• Rectus Capitis Lateralis
• Musculus rectus capitis lateralis

General

• Short, flat muscle of the anterior neck in the deep cervical fascia
• One of the deep prevertebral neck muscles

Gross Anatomy

• Origin: Superior surface of the transverse process of atlas
• Insertion: Inferior surface of the jugular process of the occipital bone

Action

• Stabilizes the atlanto-occipital joint
• Head lateral flexion (ipsilateral)

Innervation

• Cervical Plexus: Anterior rami of C1-C2 spinal nerves

Vascular Supply

• Branches of
  • Occipital arteries
  • Vertebral arteries
  • Ascending pharyngeal arteries

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Clinical Significance

• Needs to be updated

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See Also

• Neck Anatomy Main
• Physical Exam Neck
• Neck Pain Main

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