GENERAL INFORMATION
The Splenius Cervicis is a vital muscle in the neck, part of the deeper layer of the intrinsic back muscles. It plays a crucial role in the movements of the head and neck, particularly in rotating and extending the cervical spine. This muscle is essential for maintaining proper posture and facilitating smooth head movements, making it important for daily activities that involve looking up or turning the head.
ORIGIN
The Splenius Cervicis originates from the spinous processes of the third to sixth thoracic vertebrae (T3-T6). This origin provides a strong and stable base from which the muscle can operate effectively.
INSERTION POINT
It inserts into the transverse processes of the upper cervical vertebrae, typically from C1 to C3. This insertion allows it to exert significant influence on the movements of the neck, aiding in both rotation and extension.
MAJOR ARTERIES
The muscle is vascularised by branches of the vertebral and deep cervical arteries, ensuring it receives sufficient blood flow to support its active functions.
NEURAL INNERVATION
Neural innervation is provided by the dorsal rami of the cervical spinal nerves. This innervation is essential for coordinating the precise movements and stabilising actions of the neck.
TRIGGER POINT
Trigger points in the Splenius Cervicis can cause pain and stiffness in the neck, often radiating to the head and mimicking tension headaches. These points typically develop due to poor posture, repetitive motion, or stress.
CONCENTRIC FUNCTION
When contracting concentrically, the Splenius Cervicis facilitates the extension and rotation of the neck to the same side. This action is crucial for activities such as driving, where looking over the shoulder is necessary.
ECCENTRIC FUNCTION
Eccentrically, the muscle controls the movement of the neck as it flexes forward or rotates to the opposite side, helping to modulate these movements to prevent strain or injury.
ISOMETRIC FUNCTION
Isometrically, the Splenius Cervicis stabilises the neck, maintaining a static position, which is particularly important during tasks that require holding the head in a fixed orientation, such as using a computer.
RELATED MUSCLE-SCIENTIFIC NAMES
- Splenius Capitis: Assists in head rotation and extension, working in tandem with the Splenius Cervicis.
- Semispinalis Capitis: Extends and rotates the head, providing deeper support.
- Longissimus Capitis: Aids in lateral flexion and rotation of the head, enhancing neck mobility.
- Trapezius: Supports various movements of the shoulder and extends into the neck, influencing posture and stability.
ANTAGONIST
- Sternocleidomastoid: Acts primarily to flex and rotate the head to the opposite side, opposing the Splenius Cervicis.
- Scalene Muscles: These muscles elevate the ribs during respiration and flex the neck, opposing the back and side neck extension.
- Longus Colli: Flexes the neck, directly counteracting the extension provided by the Splenius Cervicis.
COMMON INJURIES
- Neck strains: Common in scenarios involving abrupt head turns or poor posture.
- Whiplash injuries Often occur from sudden movements during accidents, affecting neck stability.
- Postural neck pain: Arises from prolonged poor posture, stressing the cervical spine and associated muscles.
EXERCISES
- Neck Rotations: Improve flexibility by gently rotating the head side to side, engaging the Splenius Cervicis.
- Neck Extensions: Strengthen the muscle by tilting the head back against light resistance, emphasising its role in neck extension.
- Isometric Neck Holds: Enhance muscular endurance by holding the head against resistance in various positions.
- Dumbbell Shrugs: Target the upper back and indirectly work the Splenius Cervicis, improving shoulder and neck strength.
- Prone Cobra: Lie face down and lift the chest while squeezing the shoulder blades, activating the Splenius Cervicis and other back muscles.
STRETCHES
- Neck Lateral Flexion Stretch: Bend the head to each side to relieve tightness in the Splenius Cervicis and enhance lateral flexibility.
- Neck Rotation Stretch: Rotate the head gently to each side to increase flexibility and ease of movement.
- Upper Trapezius Stretch: Tilt the head to one side while gently pulling with the opposite hand to stretch the neck muscles comprehensively.
- Forward Neck Flexion Stretch: Bend the head forward to stretch the back of the neck, easing tension in the Splenius Cervicis and surrounding areas.
- Seated Clasped Neck Stretch: While seated, clasp hands behind the head and gently press forward, increasing the stretch in the posterior neck muscles.