Intrinsic Back Muscles- Superficial Layer

Question 1

Splenius Capitis

Answer 1

Proximal- nuchal ligament; spinous processes of C7-T6

Distal- mastoid process; superior nuchal line of skull

Innervation- posterior rami of spinal nerves

Action- laterally flex neck; rotates head side of active muscles
(together w/ splenius cervicis- extends head & neck)

Question 2

Splenius Cervicis

Answer 2

Proximal- nuchal ligament; spinous processes of C7-T6

Distal- transverse processes of C1-C4

Innervation- posterior rami of spinal nerves

Action- laterally flex neck
(together w/ splenius Capitis - extends head and neck)