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Elsevier
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Longus Capitis Muscle
Muscular System

Longus Capitis Muscle

Musculus longus capitis

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Quick Facts

Origin: Anterior tubercles of transverse processes of C3-C6 vertebrae.

Insertion: Basilar part of occipital bone.

Action: Flexes head.

Innervation: Anterior rami of first to third cervical nerves (C1-C3).

Arterial Supply: Vertebral, ascending pharyngeal, and ascending cervical arteries.

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Origin

The fibers of longus capitis muscle originate as narrow bundles from the anterior tubercles of the transverse process of the third to sixth cervical vertebrae.

Insertion

The fibers of longus capitis muscle converge as the muscle broadens as it approaches the occipital bone where it inserts into the basilar part of the bone.

Key Features & Anatomical Relations

The longus capitis muscle sits behind the pharyngobasilar fascia of the nasopharyngeal region.

Actions

The longus capitis muscle flexes the head at the atlantooccipital joints (Standring, 2016).

References

Standring, S. (2016) Gray's Anatomy: The Anatomical Basis of Clinical Practice. Gray's Anatomy Series 41st edn.: Elsevier Limited.

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