Splenius Capitis Muscle, Posterior View

Description

Posterior cervical musculature is presented with emphasis on the splenius capitis, a paired superficial intrinsic back muscle that runs obliquely from the lower cervical and upper thoracic spinous processes toward the skull. Its fibers course superolaterally to attach along the lateral third of the superior nuchal line of the occipital bone and the mastoid process, lying deep to the trapezius and superficial to the deeper extensors of the neck. Medially, the right and left splenius capitis border the nuchal ligament and the midline spinous processes. Inferiorly the view continues into the thoracic and lumbar erector spinae, with the posterior shoulder girdle and torso musculature included for orientation. This posterior perspective clarifies how splenius capitis contributes to head and neck extension bilaterally and ipsilateral rotation when acting unilaterally, actions that are often tested in physical examination of cervical pain and postural syndromes. Palpation and manual therapy frequently target this muscle along the superior nuchal line and posterior border of the sternocleidomastoid, and the illustration helps distinguish it from trapezius and semispinalis capitis when explaining focal tenderness or myofascial trigger point referral patterns. Surface anatomy matters. The muscle’s oblique fiber direction also provides a practical landmark for understanding safe planes during posterior cervical approaches where superficial dissection proceeds through trapezius before reaching deeper layers. Use this artwork in gross anatomy and kinesiology teaching to link fiber orientation to function, or in clinical texts on neck pain, headache differentials, and rehabilitation programming where clear posterior landmarks are needed. It also fits surgical education materials that introduce layered dissection of the posterior neck and upper back in a female model. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.