The Splenius Muscles and Their Role in Posture
Table of Contents
What Is The Splenius Capitis
The Splenius Capitis is one of the deep muscles in the back of the neck. It is often described as bandage like, and has a few different functions. The Splenius Capitis contracts bilaterally to extend the head and neck, unilaterally to laterally flex the neck and ipsilaterally to rotate the neck.
What Is The Splenius Cervicis
The Splenius Cervicis is also a deep muscle located in the back of the neck. It has the same function as the Splenius Capitis, which is to bilaterally to extend the head and neck, unilaterally to laterally flex the neck and ipsilaterally to rotate the neck.
Splenius Muscle & Cadaver
Splenius Capitis Origin And Insertion
Splenius Capitis Origin
The Splenius Capitis originates from the Spinous Processes of the Vertebrae of C7-T3 and the Nuchal Ligament.
Splenius Capitis Insertion
The Splenius Capitis inserts into Occipital Bone and the Mastoid Process of the Temporal Bone.
Splenius Cervicis Origin And Insertion
Splenius Cervicis Origin
The Splenius Cervicis originates from the Spinous Processes of the Vertebrae of T3-T6.
Splenius Cervicis Insertion
The Splenius Cervicis inserts into the Transverse Processes of the Vertebrae of C1-C3.
Splenius Capitis Innervation
The Splenius Capitis is innervated by the Lateral Branches of the Posterior Rami.
Splenius Cervicis Innervation
The Splenius Cervicis is innervated by the Lateral Branches of the Posterior Rami.
Splenius Capitis Pain
Splenius Capitis Syndrome can cause severe pain in the Splenius Capitis. This occurs when the Splenius Capitis muscle has become injured, usually from whiplash, a fall or sports injury. When the Splenius Capitis becomes injured, it can cause pain and other symptoms in the head, neck, and upper body such as headaches, nausea, light sensitivity, pain in the temples and eyes, and pain that radiates down the arms.
Treatment for Splenius Capitis Syndrome includes ice, heat and performing head and neck stretches. Massage and manual release therapy can also be beneficial in relieving pain in the Splenius Capitis and reducing symptoms.
Splenius Cervicis Pain
Experiencing pain in the Splenius Cervicis is very similar to the pain experienced in the Splenius Capitis. Splenius Cervicis Syndrome is basically the same as having a migraine. Symptoms can include headache in the temples and back of the neck, pain behind and below the eyes, sensitivity to light, nausea and pain that radiates down the arms. Treatment for Splenius Cervicis Syndrome is that as Splenius Capitis Syndrome.
Splenius Capitis Dizziness
Some people believe that a tight Splenius Capitis can cause Cervical Vertigo or general dizziness. If you are suffering from symptoms related to Vertigo, we suggest seeing a Vertigo Specialist who can help you diagnose the source of your symptoms and provide you with an appropriate treatment plan.
How To Stretch Splenius
Here are a few stretches to help relieve tightness in the Splenius Capitis and Splenius Cervicis. If these stretches do not alleviate your symptoms, or pain, we recommend seeing a massage therapist or chiropractor who can apply pressure in the right areas to help reduce tension in these muscles.
Stretch 1
Sit upright. Interlace both hands and place them against the back of the head. Bring your chin down towards the chest and hold this position for 30 seconds.
Stretch 2
Sit upright. Bring your ear down towards the shoulder by laterally flexing the neck. Use the hand on the same side of the body to come over the head and gently push the head towards the shoulder. Hold this position for 30 seconds and then switch sides.
Stretch 3
Sit upright and look forwards. Tuck your chin into your neck to give yourself a ‘double chin’. Hold this position for 30 seconds.
Additional Stretches for the Head and Neck
Check out our article on Upper Body Stretches for a list of additional stretches for the Head, Neck and Shoulders.
