Neck
scalenus posterior
ska-LEE-nus pos-TEER-ee-or
The posterior scalene attaches lower cervical vertebrae to second rib, flexing neck and aiding inhalation. Supports posture in endurance sports by stabilizing ribs. Less commonly injured but tightens with chronic coughs.
Open in 3D ViewerCommon Pain & Injury
Pain to posterior arm and fourth/fifth fingers. Mimics ulnar nerve issues. Doctor for hand weakness.
Anatomy & Function
Origin
Transverse processes of C4-C6 vertebrae
Insertion
Second rib
Actions
- Lateral neck flexion
- Contralateral rotation
- Elevation of second rib
Innervation
Anterior rami of C6-C8
Muscle Relationships
Antagonists
Scalenus anteriorSternocleidomastoid
Synergists
Scalenus mediusLongus colli
Trigger Points
Refers to posterior shoulder, triceps, and ring/pinky fingers.
Stretches
1Posterior scalene tilt
2Rib cage opener
3Side bend with arm raise
Common Conditions
Scalene myofascial pain syndromeUlnar nerve entrapment mimicCosto-vertebral strain
Anatomical Parts
Right scalenus posteriorLeft scalenus posterior
FAQ
Scalenus posterior pain pattern?
Refers to back arm and pinky; stretch gently.
Role of scalenus posterior?
Flexes neck laterally and elevates second rib.
Scalene posterior stretch?
Head tilt with slight rotation opposite.
Scalenes in breathing?
Accessory muscles for deep breaths in exercise.
Exercises for scalenus posterior
8
Chin To Chest Stretch
beginner
Isometric Neck Exercise - Front And Back
beginner·Bodyweight
Isometric Neck Exercise - Sides
beginner·Bodyweight
Lying Face Down Plate Neck Resistance
intermediate·other
Lying Face Up Plate Neck Resistance
intermediate·other
Neck-SMR
intermediate·other
Seated Head Harness Neck Resistance
intermediate·other
Side Neck Stretch
beginner
Also Works scalenus posterior
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.
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 scalenus posterior