Longus capitis muscle

The long muscle of the head (Musculus longus capitis) may be considered as the cranial continuation of the long muscle of the neck, situated ventrolaterally to the cranial part of the long muscle of the neck. It is a strong muscle, which lies on the lateral and ventral sides of the second to sixth vertebrae.

Origin: Arises from caudal branches of the transverse processes of the sixth to second cervical vertebrae.

Insertion: On the muscular tubercles of the basioccipital between the tympanic bullae.

Action: Flexes the atlanto-occipital joint and draws the head side ways and the neck downward.

Nerve: Rami ventrales of the cervicales nerve.