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Spinalis cervicis muscle

The Spinalis Cervicis muscle is a slender, deep paraspinal muscle, forming part of the erector spinae group, specifically the medial column. It extends along the cervical region, supporting extension and stabilization of the neck. While it may be poorly developed or even absent in some individuals, when present it plays an important role in fine-tuned cervical spine movement and posture.

Origin

  • Arises primarily from the ligamentum nuchae, spinous process of C7, and sometimes from the spinous processes of T1–T2 vertebrae.

Insertion

  • Inserts onto the spinous processes of the axis (C2) and sometimes the spinous processes of C3 and C4 vertebrae.

Function

  • Extension of the cervical vertebral column.

  • Aids in stabilizing the cervical spine.

  • Contributes to posture and slight lateral flexion of the neck.

Nerve Supply

  • Dorsal rami of the lower cervical and upper thoracic spinal nerves (usually C4–C8).

Artery Supply

  • Branches from the deep cervical artery (from costocervical trunk).

  • Muscular branches from the vertebral artery.

  • Occasional small branches from the posterior intercostal arteries.

Vein Supply

  • Drains via the corresponding veins:

    • Deep cervical vein

    • Vertebral venous plexus

MRI Appearance

  • T1-weighted:

    • Appears as intermediate-to-low signal intensity compared to surrounding subcutaneous fat.

    • Well-defined margins when present.

  • T2-weighted:

    • Displays intermediate signal intensity.

    • Muscle edema (in pathology) appears as hyperintensity.

  • STIR (Short Tau Inversion Recovery):

    • Normal muscle is low-to-intermediate signal.

    • Any pathological edema or inflammation appears as a high signal (bright).

CT Appearance

  • Appears as a soft tissue structure with homogeneous density, slightly denser than surrounding fat.

MRI images

Splenius cervicis muscle mri axial image