Origin
It arises from the 1st cervical vertebra (atlas).
Insertion
Inferior nuchal line.
Blood supply
Vertebral artery, suboccipital artery.
Nerve supply
Suboccipital nerve.
Action
This muscle helps to stabilize the joint between the 1st and 2nd cervical vertebrae as well as between the skull and the 1st cervical vertebra.
Disease/Injury
Injury to this muscle can cause neck pain, headache, dizziness and eyestrain.
Muscle Exercise
Head lifts: Lie on a flat surface on your tummy. Now lift your head up to 1 inch whilst ensuring that the chin is in contact with the floor. Hold for a few seconds and repeat.
Interesting facts
This helps to maintain the head position when the body is moving, such as, while driving or walking.
