Longus capitis muscle
Musculus longus capitis
- Related terms: Longus capitis
Definition
Longus capitis muscle | |
Origin | Anterior tubercles of the transverse processes of the C3 to C6 cervical vertebrae |
Insertion | Basilar part of the occipital bone |
Blood supply | Ascending pharyngeal, ascending cervical branch of inferior thyroid, vertebral arteries. |
Innervation | |
Action | Flexes the head |
The longus capitis muscle is one of the deep prevertebral group of muscles in the neck region. It connects the cervical vertebrae (C3–C6) to the base of the skull and plays an important role in flexion and stabilization of the head and upper cervical spine.
Anatomical details
1. Origin
Anterior tubercles of the transverse processes of C3–C6 vertebrae.
2. Insertion
The fibres ascend medially to insert into the basilar part of the occipital bone, just anterior to the foramen magnum
Innervation
Ventral rami of C1 to C3 spinal nerves
Relations
Aspect | Structures Related |
Anterior | Prevertebral fascia, pharynx, and retropharyngeal space |
Posterior | Transverse processes of cervical vertebrae and vertebral artery |
Lateral | Scalene anterior muscle (laterally) |
Actions
Flexes the head and upper cervical spine (acting bilaterally).
Assists in lateral flexion of the head to the same side (acting unilaterally).
Contributes to stabilization of the atlanto-occipital and upper cervical joints. The longus capitis muscle, together with the rectus capitis anterior and longus colli, forms the deep cervical flexor group, crucial for cervical posture and fine head control.
References
Gray, H. (2016) Gray’s Anatomy: The Anatomical Basis of Clinical Practice. 41st edn. Edited by S. Standring. New York: Elsevier. Chapter 29: Neck, pp. 450.
