SCALENE MUSCLES

Origin

Anterior – 3^rd to 6^th cervical vertebrae.

Medius – 2^nd to 6^th cervical vertebrae.

Posterior – 4^th to 6^th cervical vertebrae.

Insertion

Anterior – 1^st and 2^nd ribs.

Medius – 1^st rib.

Posterior – 1^st rib.

Blood supply

Ascending cervical artery.

Nerve supply

Cervical nerves.

Action

The muscles help in neck rotation and forward bending and in the elevation of the 1^st and 2^nd ribs. They also help in breathing.

Disease/Injury

Scalene syndrome refers to swelling and ischemia caused as a result of compression of the subclavian artery and the brachial plexus.

Muscle Exercise

The chin tuck exercise can be performed to strengthen the scalene muscles.

Interesting Facts 

The scalenus minimus muscle is an extra muscle found in every 3 out of 10 people.