Rectus capitis lateralis muscle

Rectus Capitis Lateralis Muscle

The Rectus Capitis Lateralis muscle is a small muscle located in the upper neck region. It is one of the four suboccipital muscles, along with the Rectus Capitis Posterior Major, Rectus Capitis Posterior Minor, and Obliquus Capitis Superior. The Rectus Capitis Lateralis muscle plays an important role in the movement and stabilization of the head.

Anatomy

The Rectus Capitis Lateralis muscle originates from the transverse process of the atlas (C1 vertebra) and inserts onto the jugular process of the occipital bone. It is innervated by the first cervical nerve (C1) and receives its blood supply from the occipital artery.

Function

The main function of the Rectus Capitis Lateralis muscle is to rotate the head to the same side. When both sides of the muscle contract simultaneously, they extend the head at the atlanto-occipital joint. Additionally, the muscle helps to stabilize the head during movements such as nodding.

Clinical Significance

Injuries or dysfunctions of the Rectus Capitis Lateralis muscle can lead to various symptoms and conditions. For example, if the muscle becomes tight or hypertonic, it can contribute to headaches, neck pain, and restricted range of motion in the neck. In some cases, trigger points in the muscle may also refer pain to other areas of the head and neck.

Related Muscles

The Rectus Capitis Lateralis muscle works in conjunction with other muscles in the neck to facilitate movement and stability. Some of the related muscles include:

- Rectus Capitis Posterior Major: This muscle is located deep to the Rectus Capitis Lateralis and helps to extend and rotate the head.

- Rectus Capitis Posterior Minor: Situated deep to the Rectus Capitis Lateralis and Rectus Capitis Posterior Major, this muscle also assists in head extension.

- Obliquus Capitis Superior: Positioned above the Rectus Capitis Lateralis, this muscle aids in head rotation and lateral flexion.

References

1. Drake, Richard L., et al. Gray's Anatomy for Students. Elsevier Health Sciences, 2014.

2. Standring, Susan, et al. Gray's Anatomy: The Anatomical Basis of Clinical Practice. Elsevier Health Sciences, 2015.

3. Tortora, Gerard J., and Bryan H. Derrickson. Principles of Anatomy and Physiology. John Wiley & Sons, 2017.

Internal Links

- Suboccipital Muscles: Learn more about the group of muscles that includes the Rectus Capitis Lateralis.

- Atlas (Anatomy): Explore the first cervical vertebra from which the Rectus Capitis Lateralis muscle originates.

- Occipital Bone: Discover the bone onto which the Rectus Capitis Lateralis muscle inserts.

- Atlanto-occipital Joint: Understand the joint where the Rectus Capitis Lateralis muscle contributes to head extension.

- Neck Pain: Find information on neck pain, which can be associated with dysfunction of the Rectus Capitis Lateralis muscle.

Rectus capitis lateralis muscle Resources
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