Scalene muscles

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(Redirected from Middle scalene)

Scalene Muscles

The Scalene Muscles are a group of three pairs of muscles in the lateral neck, namely the anterior scalene, middle scalene, and posterior scalene. They are innervated by the fourth, fifth, and sixth cervical spinal nerves (C4-C6).

Anatomy[edit | edit source]

The scalene muscles originate from the transverse processes of the cervical vertebrae of C2 to C7 and insert onto the first and second ribs. Thus they form part of the floor of the posterior triangle of the neck.

Anterior Scalene[edit | edit source]

The anterior scalene (from Greek skalenos, meaning uneven) is named for its unequal size compared to the other two scalenes. It originates from the transverse processes of the lower six cervical vertebrae and is inserted into the scalene tubercle on the inner border of the first rib.

Middle Scalene[edit | edit source]

The middle scalene is larger than the anterior but smaller than the posterior. It arises from the transverse processes of the lower six cervical vertebrae and is inserted into the upper surface of the first rib.

Posterior Scalene[edit | edit source]

The posterior scalene is the largest and deepest of the three muscles. It originates from the transverse processes of the lower six cervical vertebrae and is inserted into the outer surface of the second rib.

Function[edit | edit source]

The scalene muscles elevate the first and second ribs, aiding in respiration. They also function to bend the neck to the same side and rotate it to the opposite side.

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

Scalene muscles can be involved in several clinical conditions, including scalene syndrome and thoracic outlet syndrome.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]



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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD