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Muscles/Neck

Neck

iliocostalis cervicis

il-ee-oh-kos-TAH-lis SER-vih-sis

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.

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Common Pain & Injury

Neck stiffness or upper back knots from poor posture or whiplash. See doc for radiating arm pain.

Anatomy & Function

Origin

Angles of upper 3-6 ribs (upper rib angles)

Insertion

Transverse processes of C4-C6 vertebrae (neck bone side bumps)

Actions

  • Neck extension (looks up)
  • Lateral neck flexion (ear to shoulder)
  • Ipsilateral rotation

Innervation

Dorsal rami of cervical spinal nerves (C4-C8)

Muscle Relationships

Antagonists

SternocleidomastoidScalenes

Synergists

Longissimus cervicisSplenius cervicisSemispinalis cervicis

Trigger Points

Midline upper thoracic; refers to neck, mastoid process, occiput.

Stretches

1Chin tuck with rotation
2Upper trap stretch
3Levator scapulae stretch

Common Conditions

Cervical myofascial painWhiplash-associated disorderNeck sprain

Anatomical Parts

Right iliocostalis cervicisLeft iliocostalis cervicis

FAQ

Iliocostalis cervicis pain?

Upper back/neck ache from extension overuse, refers to head.

Stretch iliocostalis cervicis?

Side bend neck away with chin tuck.

What does iliocostalis cervicis do?

Extends and side-bends neck for posture.

Exercises for iliocostalis cervicis

8

Also Works iliocostalis cervicis

1

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.
cricothyroid
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.
digastric
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.
geniohyoid
Thin neck muscle under chin pulling hyoid forward/up, geniohyoid aids swallowing and tongue movement. Supports neck stability in planks.
hyoglossus
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.
inferior pharyngeal constrictor
Inferior pharyngeal constrictor wraps lower throat, constricting for swallowing. Supports airway protection.

Neck Pain Guide

Common causes and relief

Activities & Sports

See which activities use iliocostalis cervicis

Pinpoint·Interactive 3D Anatomy & Exercise Guide