Semispinalis Capitis
Region: Head & Neck Muscles · All head & neck muscles
Semispinalis Capitis at a glance
| Origin | Transverse processes of C7–T6 and articular processes of C4–C6 |
|---|---|
| Insertion | Occipital bone between the superior and inferior nuchal lines |
| Actions | Extends the head; Turns the face slightly to the opposite side |
| Nerve supply | Dorsal rami of cervical spinal nerves (greater occipital nerve, C2, emerges through it) |
◆ Good to know
The greater occipital nerve pierces this muscle on its way to the scalp, a relationship used when locating an occipital nerve block.
More Head & Neck Muscles
Please note: This page is an anatomy education summary for students and curious readers, not medical advice. Attachment points are given in their classic short form; individual anatomy varies, and detailed dissection-level descriptions belong in an anatomy atlas.