GENERAL INFORMATION
The prevertebral muscles, strategically located anterior to the vertebral column, encompass four key muscles: the longus colli, longus capitis, rectus capitis anterior, and rectus capitis lateralis. These muscles are integral to neck stability and mobility, as they facilitate movements that are crucial for maintaining posture and proper alignment of the cervical spine. Additionally, their functionality is essential in the mechanics of swallowing and head orientation.
ORIGIN
The origin of prevertebral muscles is as follows:
- Longus Colli: Originates from the anterior bodies of T1 to T3 vertebrae and from the transverse processes of C3 to C5.
- Longus Capitis: Begins at the anterior tubercles of the transverse processes of the third to the sixth cervical vertebrae.
- Rectus Capitis Anterior: Starts from the lateral mass of the atlas, known as C1.
- Rectus Capitis Lateralis: Originates from the superior facet of the atlas, also known as C1.
INSERTION POINT
- Longus Colli: Inserts onto the anterior bodies of C1 to C4 vertebrae, as well as the transverse processes of C5 and C6.
- Longus Capitis: Attaches to the inferior surface of the basilar part of the occipital bone.
- Rectus Capitis Anterior: Inserts into the basilar part of the occipital bone near the foramen magnum.
- Rectus Capitis Lateralis: Inserts at the jugular process of the occipital bone, thus contributing to the lateral stability of the head.
MAJOR ARTERIES
The prevertebral muscles receive a rich blood supply from the vertebral arteries, which branch off to ensure that each muscle is well-nourished. This vascular supply is vital for maintaining muscle health and facilitating their functions effectively.
NEURAL INNERVATION
These muscles are innervated by the cervical spinal nerves, allowing them to coordinate their activities to enable precise and smooth movements. This neural control is essential for the integrated functioning of neck movements and head stability.
TRIGGER POINT
Trigger points in these muscles can lead to deep neck pain and severe headaches, which are often misidentified as migraines or other types of headaches. As a result, these symptoms can impact daily activities, requiring targeted treatment to alleviate the discomfort.
CONCENTRIC FUNCTION
- Longus Colli and Longus Capitis: Primarily function to flex the neck, slightly rotate the head, and assist in delicate neck adjustments.
- Rectus Capitis Anterior and Lateralis: Focus on flexing and aiding lateral flexion at the atlanto-occipital joint, which is crucial for nodding and tilting movements.
ECCENTRIC FUNCTION
Moreover, these muscles adeptly manage the extension and lateral return movements of the head and neck, thereby allowing for smooth and controlled transitions back to neutral postures.
ISOMETRIC FUNCTION
Furthermore, they also maintain neck and head posture, effectively stabilising the cervical spine against external forces, both during dynamic movements and while at rest.
RELATED MUSCLE-SCIENTIFIC NAMES
- Scalenes
- Sternocleidomastoid
- Trapezius
ANTAGONIST
- Splenius Capitis
- Splenius Cervicis
- Suboccipital muscles
COMMON INJURIES
- Muscle strain: Commonly results from sudden movements or excessive use, leading to pain, swelling, and limited mobility.
- Whiplash: This severe strain typically occurs during accidents, as the rapid movement overstretches the muscles.
EXERCISES
- Chin tucks: This effective exercise engages and strengthens the muscles by retracting the chin directly back.
- Neck flexion: Gently tucking the chin and bending the head forward specifically activates the prevertebral muscles.
- Isometric holds: Strengthen these muscles by pressing the forehead against a static palm, thereby building endurance without movement.
- Head lifts: Strengthening these muscles can also be achieved by lying on your back and lifting the head slightly.
- Neck rotations: Gradually increasing the flexibility and strength of these muscles can be achieved by turning the head from side to side.
STRETCHES
- Neck extension stretch: Gently tilting the head back stretches the prevertebral muscles, thus elongating the anterior neck.
- Lateral neck stretch: Bending the head towards each shoulder gently stretches the neck muscles, releasing tension.
- Forward neck stretch: Pulling the chin towards the chest stretches the back of the neck, providing relief from stiffness.
- Diagonal neck stretch: Combining lateral bending with rotation stretches various muscle fibres, thereby enhancing flexibility.
- Dynamic neck circles: Controlled circular movements help increase mobility and alleviate muscle tightness effectively.
