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The belt muscle of the head
Last reviewed: 07.07.2025
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The splenitis capitis muscle (m. splenitis capitis) is located in front of the upper part of the sternocleidomastoid and trapezius muscles. It begins on the lower half of the nuchal ligament (below the level of the fourth cervical vertebra), on the spinous processes of the seventh cervical and upper three to four thoracic vertebrae. The bundles of this muscle go upward and laterally and are attached to the mastoid process of the temporal bone and to the area under the lateral part of the superior nuchal line of the occipital bone.
Function: With bilateral contraction, the muscles extend the cervical spine and head. With unilateral contraction, the muscle turns the head to its side.
Innervation: posterior branches of the cervical spinal nerves (CIII-CVIII).
Blood supply: occipital artery, deep cervical artery.
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