Neck Musculature

Question 1

Levator Scapulae

Answer 1

★ Insertion
Superior vertebral border of the scapulae
★ Isolated function
Concentrically accelerates cervical extension, lateral flexion, and ipsilateral rotation when the scapulae is anchored
Assists in elevation and downward rotation of the scapulae
★ Integrated function
Eccentrically decelerates cervical flexion and contralateral cervical rotation and lateral flexion
Eccentrically decelrates scapular depression and upward rotation when the neck is stabilized
Stabilizes the cervical spine and scapulae

Question 2

Sternocleidomastoid

Answer 2

★ Insertion
mastoid process, lateral superior nuchal line of the occiput of the skull
★ Isolated function
Concentrically accelerates cervical flexion, rotation, and lateral flexion
★ Integrated function
Eccentrically decelerates cervical extension, rotation, and lateral flexion
Isometrically stabilizes the cervical spine and acromioclavicular joint

Question 3

Scalenes

Answer 3

★ Insertion
1st and 2nd ribs
★ Isolated function
Concentrically accelerates cervical flexion, rotation, and lateral flexion
Assists in rib elevation during inhalation
★ Integrated function
Eccentrically decelerates cervical extension, rotation, and lateral flexion
Isometrically stabilizes the cervical spine

Question 4

Longus Coli

Answer 4

★ Insertion
Anterior and lateral C1
★ Isolated function
Concentrically accelerates cervical flexion, lateral flexion, and ipsilateral rotation
★ Integrated function
Eccentrically decelerates cervical extension, lateral flexion, and contralateral rotation

Question 5

Longus Capitis

Answer 5

★ Insertion
Inferior occipital bone
★ Isolated function
Concentrically accelerates cervical flexion and lateral flexion
★ Integrated function
Eccentrically decelerates cervical extension
Isometrically stabilizes the cervical spine