Longus Capitis Muscle

Longus Capitis Muscle Anatomy

The longus capitis is a prevertebral muscle of the neck. Situated anterior to the vertebral column it is involved in flexion and rotation of the head and cervical vertebrae.

is broad and thick above, narrow below, and arises by four tendinous slips.

origin

anterior tubercles of the transverse processes of the third, fourth, fifth, and sixth cervical vertebrae.

insertion

basilar part of the occipital bone.

nerve supply

muscular branches of C1 – C4.

Blood Supply

Muscular branches of the ascending cervical artery.

action

Acting bilaterally: flexion of the cervical vertebrae and head.
Acting unilaterally: rotation and lateral flexion of the cervical vertebrae and head to the sa

flexion of neck at atlanto-occipital joint.