Neck

Set of anterior cervical intertransversarii

an-TEER-ee-or SER-vih-kul in-ter-tranz-ver-SAIR-ee-eye

These small muscles run between the transverse processes of adjacent cervical vertebrae in the front of the neck. They assist in lateral flexion and slight rotation of the neck, helping maintain proper head alignment during movement. Fitness enthusiasts care because they support neck stability in exercises like overhead presses or deadlifts.

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Common Pain & Injury

Pain from these muscles is rare but can occur with acute neck trauma or whiplash, presenting as localized soreness or stiffness on one side of the neck. Overuse from poor posture or repetitive neck turning may contribute. See a doctor if pain persists beyond a week, radiates to the shoulder, or accompanies numbness.

Anatomy & Function

Origin

Anterior tubercles of transverse processes of middle and upper cervical vertebrae (front bumps on side projections of neck bones).

Insertion

Anterior tubercles of transverse processes of adjacent superior cervical vertebrae (front bumps on side projections of the next higher neck bones).

Actions

Lateral flexion of cervical spine (tilting head to side)
Ipsilateral rotation (turning head to same side)

Innervation

Anterior rami of cervical spinal nerves (C2-C7) (front branches of neck spinal nerves).

Muscle Relationships

Antagonists

Posterior cervical intertransversariiSplenius cervicis

Synergists

Anterior scaleneLongus colli

Trigger Points

Rarely documented; may form between transverse processes with referred pain to ipsilateral neck and upper shoulder.

Stretches

1Side neck tilt

2Upper trapezius stretch

3Levator scapulae stretch

Common Conditions

Cervical sprainWhiplash-associated disorder

Anatomical Parts

Set of anterior cervical intertransversarii

FAQ

What do anterior cervical intertransversarii do?

They flex the neck laterally and assist in rotation, stabilizing the cervical spine during head movements.

Can anterior cervical intertransversarii cause neck pain?

Yes, strain or trigger points can cause unilateral neck pain, often from whiplash or poor posture.

How to stretch anterior cervical intertransversarii?

Perform gentle side neck tilts, holding for 20-30 seconds per side.

Exercises for Set of anterior cervical intertransversarii

8

Chin To Chest Stretch position 1

Chin To Chest Stretch position 2

Chin To Chest Stretch

Isometric Neck Exercise - Front And Back position 1

Isometric Neck Exercise - Front And Back position 2

Isometric Neck Exercise - Front And Back

beginner·Bodyweight

Isometric Neck Exercise - Sides position 1

Isometric Neck Exercise - Sides position 2

Isometric Neck Exercise - Sides

beginner·Bodyweight

Lying Face Down Plate Neck Resistance position 1

Lying Face Down Plate Neck Resistance position 2

Lying Face Down Plate Neck Resistance

intermediate·other

Lying Face Up Plate Neck Resistance position 1

Lying Face Up Plate Neck Resistance position 2

Lying Face Up Plate Neck Resistance

intermediate·other

Neck-SMR position 1

Neck-SMR position 2

Neck-SMR

intermediate·other

Seated Head Harness Neck Resistance position 1

Seated Head Harness Neck Resistance position 2

Seated Head Harness Neck Resistance

intermediate·other

Side Neck Stretch position 1

Side Neck Stretch position 2

Side Neck Stretch

Also Works Set of anterior cervical intertransversarii

1

Spinal Stretch position 1

Spinal Stretch position 2

Spinal Stretch

Related Neck Muscles

arytenoid cartilage

Paired laryngeal cartilages in throat enabling voice production via vocal cord movement. Not muscle but closest for neck; singers train supporting muscles. Vital for breathing/speaking.

Ascending part of right trapezius

The ascending part of the right trapezius is the uppermost portion of the trapezius muscle on the right side, running from the base of the skull and upper cervical spine up toward the clavicle and shoulder. It elevates the scapula (shoulder blade) and assists in neck extension and rotation, crucial for shrugging movements and maintaining upright posture during lifts. Strong ascending traps prevent neck strain in overhead presses and rows.

cervical rotator

Cervical rotators are deep neck muscles like obliquus capitis inferior and splenius cervicis that turn the head side-to-side. Located deep in the upper cervical spine, they enable rotation for looking over shoulder. Vital for neck mobility in sports and daily turns.

The cricothyroid is a small intrinsic laryngeal muscle in the anterior neck, tensing vocal cords for higher pitch. Located between cricoid and thyroid cartilages, it's key for singing and speaking. Matters for vocal athletes like singers.

The digastric has anterior and posterior bellies under the jaw, opening the mouth by depressing mandible. Runs from mandible to mastoid via sling, key for chewing and yawning.

Thin neck muscle under chin pulling hyoid forward/up, geniohyoid aids swallowing and tongue movement. Supports neck stability in planks.

The hyoglossus is a thin tongue muscle running from the hyoid bone (under chin) up into the tongue's side. It depresses and retracts the tongue, aiding swallowing and speech. Rarely targeted in fitness, but dysfunction affects eating and breathing mechanics.

iliocostalis cervicis

Iliocostalis cervicis is the neck portion of the erector spinae, running vertically along upper back to cervical ribs. It extends and laterally bends the neck, vital for posture in overhead lifts and sports. Supports head stability in fitness.

Neck Pain Guide

Common causes and relief

Activities & Sports

See which activities use Set of anterior cervical intertransversarii