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Obliquus capitis superior muscle (anatomy)

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Obliquus capitis superior is one of the muscles of the suboccipital triangle. It arises from the lateral mass of the atlas bone (C1). It passes superiorly and posteriorly to insert into the lateral half of the inferior nuchal line.

It is innervated by the suboccipital nerve, the dorsal ramus of the first spinal nerve (C1).

Obliquus capitis superior acts at the atlanto-occipital joint to weakly:

  • extend the head
  • flex the head to the ipsilateral side

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The content herein is provided for informational purposes and does not replace the need to apply professional clinical judgement when diagnosing or treating any medical condition. A licensed medical practitioner should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.

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