Rectus Capitis Lateralis (Left) (Musculus rectus capitis lateralis)
Educational content only — not medical advice.
Anatomy
A short, stout prevertebral muscle extending between the atlas and the base of the skull, regarded as the cranialmost continuation of the posterior intertransversarii. It arises from the superior surface of the transverse process of the atlas and ascends vertically to insert into the jugular process of the occipital bone. Working unilaterally, it laterally tilts the head to the same side and stabilizes the atlanto-occipital joint.
Origin & insertion
From the superior surface of the transverse process of the atlas (C1), into the inferior surface of the jugular process of the occipital bone.
Action
Laterally flexes the head to the ipsilateral side; stabilizes the craniovertebral joint against lateral shearing.
Innervation
Anterior rami of C1 and C2 cervical spinal nerves.
Clinical notes
Lies in close proximity to the internal jugular vein and the anterior ramus of C1; spasm produces unilateral suboccipital neck tilt and localized retromastoid tenderness.
Related structures
Educational references
FAQ
What is the role of the Rectus Capitis Lateralis (Left)?
A short, stout prevertebral muscle extending between the atlas and the base of the skull, regarded as the cranialmost continuation of the posterior intertransversarii. It arises from the superior surface of the transverse process of the atlas and ascends vertically to insert into the jugular process of the occipital bone. Working unilaterally, it laterally tilts the head to the same side and stabilizes the atlanto-occipital joint.
Why is the Rectus Capitis Lateralis (Left) clinically important?
Lies in close proximity to the internal jugular vein and the anterior ramus of C1; spasm produces unilateral suboccipital neck tilt and localized retromastoid tenderness.
Source & license
BodyParts3D, © The Database Center for Life Science licensed under CC Attribution 4.0 International (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/). license details