Semispinalis

Structure

• Extends from thoracic spine to posterior head
• Subsegments
  • Semispinalis Thoracis
  • Semispinalis Cervicis
  • Semispinalis Capitis

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Origin

• Transverse process of vertebrae C7-T12

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Insertion

• Occipital bone between superior and inferior nuchal lines
• Spinous process of vertebrae C6-T4

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Actions

• Bilateral: Extension of trunk, cervical spine, and head
• Unilateral: Sidebending of trunk, cervical spine, and head and rotation of trunk, cervical spine, and head to opposite side

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Vascular Supply

• Occipital Artery
• Deep Cervical Artery
• Superior Intercostal Artery
• Posterior Intercostal Arteries
• Subcostal Arteries
• Lumbar Arteries

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Nerve

• Greater Occipital Nerve
• Spinal nerves C1-T12 (Dorsal Rami)

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See Also

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

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