Splenius Muscles: Origin, Insertion, Nerve Supply & Action

The superficial muscles in this group are-splenius
Splenius capitis
 Splenius cervicis

Both are associated with movements of the head and neck.

Splenius Capitis: Origin, Insertion, Nerve Supply & Action

Attachments:
Origin:
Originates lower aspect of ligamentum nuchae, and the spinous processes of C7 to T3/4 vertebrae.
Insertion:
The muscle fibers ascend, attaching to the mastoid process and the occipital bone of the skull.

Nerve supply: Posterior rami of spinal nerves C3 and C4.

Function: Rotate head to the same side.

Splenius Cervicis: Origin, Insertion, Nerve Supply & Action

Attachments:
Origin:
Originates from spinous processes of T3-T6 vertebrae.
Insertion:
The fibers ascend, attaching to the transverse processes of C1-3/4.

Nerve supply: Posterior rami of the lower cervical spinal nerves.

Function: Rotate head to the same side.