Posterior Scalene

Original Editor - Wendy Walker

Lead Editors - Kim Jackson, Wendy Walker, Evan Thomas, Daphne Jackson and WikiSysop

Description

Posterior Scalene, AKA Scalenus Posterior,  is one of the lateral muscles of the neck, belonging to the Scalene group. It is deeply placed, lying behind Sternocleidomastoid.

Origin

C4 to 6

Posterior tubercles of the transverse processes of cervical vertebrae 4 to 6

Insertion

2nd Rib

Anterior surface of the 2nd rib, posterior to the tubercle for serratus anterior

Nerve Supply

Branchial Plexus C6 to 8

Branches of the ventral rami of cervical spinal nerves C6 to 8

Blood Supply

Ascending cervical artery and superficial cervical artery

Action

Acting from above: elevation of the 2nd rib

Acting from below, with Anterior and Middle Scalene cervical side flexion and rotation

Function

Acting from above: acccessorymuscle of inspiration

Acting from below, cervical side flexion and rotation; if both sides acting, small degree of cervical flexion