Neck

scalenus anterior

ska-LEE-nus an-TEER-ee-or

The anterior scalene anchors from neck vertebrae to first rib, aiding neck flexion and arm elevation. It lifts the first rib during deep breaths, important for overhead athletes. Tension contributes to thoracic outlet issues.

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Common Pain & Injury

Pain radiates to shoulder, arm, and fingers, mimicking carpal tunnel. Numbness common. Urgent care for weakness or dropping objects.

Anatomy & Function

Origin

Transverse processes of C3-C6 vertebrae (side bumps of mid-neck bones)

Insertion

Scalene tubercle of first rib

Actions

Neck flexion (side bend)
Lateral flexion
Elevation of first rib
Protraction of scapula

Innervation

Anterior rami of C4-C6

Muscle Relationships

Antagonists

Scalenus posteriorTrapezius

Synergists

Scalenus mediusSternocleidomastoid

Trigger Points

Muscle belly; refers to lateral arm, thumb, and index finger.

Stretches

1Scalene tilt stretch

2Upper trap stretch

3Doorway pec minor stretch

Common Conditions

Thoracic outlet syndromeScalene myofascial painCervical radiculopathy

Anatomical Parts

Right scalenus anteriorLeft scalenus anterior

FAQ

Scalene anterior pain?

Refers to arm and hand; from poor posture-stretch neck sides.

What does scalenus anterior do?

Flexes neck, lifts first rib for breathing and arm use.

Scalene stretch?

Tilt ear to shoulder away from tight side.

Scalenes thoracic outlet?

Tight scalenes compress nerves/vessels; PT helps.

Exercises for scalenus anterior

Also Works scalenus anterior

Spinal Stretch

beginner

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.

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

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Activities & Sports

See which activities use scalenus anterior

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