Spinalis Cervicis
Back · Trunk
Spinalis cervicis, also called spinalis colli, is the cervical portion of the medial spinalis column of the erector spinae. It is a small and often variable muscle that arises from the spinous processes of the lower cervical and upper thoracic vertebrae (C7-T2) and the ligamentum nuchae, and ascends to insert on the spinous process of the axis (C2), occasionally reaching C3 or C4. Running from spinous process to spinous process close to the midline, it extends the cervical vertebral column. It is supplied by the posterior (dorsal) rami of the cervical spinal nerves. Its inconsistency means it may be small or partly absent in many individuals.
Origin, Insertion, Action & Nerve
Origin
Spinous processes of C7–T2 and the ligamentum nuchae
Insertion
Spinous process of the axis (C2), sometimes C3–C4
Action
Extends the cervical vertebral column
Nerve
Posterior (dorsal) rami of cervical spinal nerves
Attachments explained
The Spinalis Cervicis is defined first by where it attaches. Its origin is the more fixed anchor, usually the proximal or more stable end that stays put during contraction, while its insertion is the more mobile point that is pulled toward the origin when the muscle shortens.
Origin
Spinous processes of C7–T2 and the ligamentum nuchae
Insertion
Spinous process of the axis (C2), sometimes C3–C4
Action & function
When the Spinalis Cervicis contracts, it produces the following movement: Extends the cervical vertebral column.
As part of the Back group of the Trunk, it works alongside neighbouring muscles to generate smooth, coordinated movement and to stabilise the structures it acts on.
Nerve supply & clinical relevance
The Spinalis Cervicis receives its nerve supply from the Posterior (dorsal) rami of cervical spinal nerves.
Because a muscle can only contract when its nerve is intact, injury to the Posterior can weaken or paralyse the Spinalis Cervicis, impairing the movements it normally produces (extends the cervical vertebral column). This is why knowing the innervation is central to localising nerve lesions in clinical practice.
How to study the Spinalis Cervicis (the OIANS method)
Anchor spinalis cervicis by the fact that both its origin and its insertion are spinous processes, keeping it hugging the midline. It stretches from the C7-T2 spines and the ligamentum nuchae up to the spine of the axis, so its only job is straightforward extension of the neck. The spinous-to-spinous pattern is the signature of the whole spinalis group and the easiest way to recall this one.
Note its variability and small size, which is why it is easy to overlook on dissection. Study it beside spinalis thoracis and spinalis capitis as the three vertical, midline extensors, and remember that cervicis is the neck member, ending on the axis. Its cervical dorsal-ramus supply matches every other deep posterior neck muscle, so the nerve is not a distinguishing detail.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Spinalis Cervicis located?
The Spinalis Cervicis is a muscle of the Back group, located in the Trunk.
What is the origin of the Spinalis Cervicis?
Spinous processes of C7–T2 and the ligamentum nuchae
What is the insertion of the Spinalis Cervicis?
Spinous process of the axis (C2), sometimes C3–C4
What movements does the Spinalis Cervicis produce?
Extends the cervical vertebral column
What nerve supplies the Spinalis Cervicis?
Posterior (dorsal) rami of cervical spinal nerves
Is the Spinalis Cervicis free to study in OIANS?
The Spinalis Cervicis is always free to browse. Its full origin, insertion, action and nerve details are open to everyone in the Muscle Directory. Quiz and Flashcard practice for the Trunk is part of the one-time Lifetime upgrade, though; only the Upper Limb decks are free to test yourself on.
Related muscles
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