Semispinalis Capitis

Region: Head & Neck Muscles · All head & neck muscles

Semispinalis Capitis at a glance

OriginTransverse processes of C7–T6 and articular processes of C4–C6
InsertionOccipital bone between the superior and inferior nuchal lines
ActionsExtends the head; Turns the face slightly to the opposite side
Nerve supplyDorsal 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.

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.