What muscles could cause back of neck pain?

Muscles that may contribute to back of neck pain include semispinalis capitis, semispinalis cervicis, splenius capitis, splenius cervicis, rectus capitis posterior major, rectus capitis posterior minor, obliquus capitis superior, obliquus capitis inferior, trapezius. Trigger points, strains, or weakness in these muscles can refer pain to this area.

Neck

Back of Neck

Q: What causes pain in the back of neck?

Common causes of back of neck pain include forward head posture from prolonged screen use, suboccipital muscle tension causing tension headaches, cervical spondylosis or degenerative changes, upper trapezius and levator scapulae overload, stress-related muscle guarding. The specific cause depends on the nature of the pain, how it started, and which movements aggravate it.

Pain at the back of the neck involves the suboccipital muscles, semispinalis, splenius, and upper trapezius. It is extremely common with desk work, forward head posture, and stress, and can radiate upward to cause tension headaches.

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment of any pain or medical condition.

Common Causes

Forward head posture from prolonged screen use

Suboccipital muscle tension causing tension headaches

Cervical spondylosis or degenerative changes

Upper trapezius and levator scapulae overload

Stress-related muscle guarding

Muscles in This Area

Neck

semispinalis capitis

This thick muscle spans upper thoracic and lower cervical to occiput, extending and rotating the head. Buffers heavy axial loads in powerlifters and stabilizes during shrugs. Key for countering forward head in tech users.

Semispinalis strainCervicogenic headacheNuchal rigidity

Neck

semispinalis cervicis

The semispinalis cervicis runs from upper thoracic to cervical transverse processes, extending the neck. Supports head during upright posture and overhead presses. Vital for cervical stability in contact sports.

Cervical erector strainWhiplash-associated disorderFacet syndrome

Neck

splenius capitis

Broad muscle upper neck/shoulder blade extends/rotates head. Key for neck strength in presses.

Splenius capitis strainCervicogenic headache

Neck

splenius cervicis

Lower splenius extends/rotates cervical spine.

Cervical strain

Neck

rectus capitis posterior major

The rectus capitis posterior major is a small deep neck muscle at the base of your skull, running from the upper cervical spine to the occiput. It extends and rotates the head, helping maintain upright posture during daily activities and workouts. Strong suboccipitals like this one prevent forward head posture common in desk workers and lifters.

Cervicogenic headacheSuboccipital strainCervical spondylosis

Neck

rectus capitis posterior minor

This tiny deep neck muscle sits just below the occiput, connecting the atlas to the skull. It assists in head extension and rotation, crucial for stabilizing your head during heavy lifts or prolonged sitting. Weakness contributes to chronic neck stiffness in fitness enthusiasts.

Suboccipital myofascial painCervicogenic dizzinessAtlanto-occipital dysfunction

Neck

obliquus capitis superior

Upper suboccipital extending and bending the head laterally while stabilizing occiput. Works with rotators for precise head control in aiming sports. Prevents atlanto-occipital instability.

Occipital neuralgiaCervical imbalance

Neck

obliquus capitis inferior

Deep suboccipital muscle rotating the atlas on axis for head turns. Stabilizes craniocervical junction during neck twists in sports. Critical for proprioception and dizziness prevention in rotational training.

Cervicogenic dizzinessSuboccipital headache

Upper Back

trapezius

The trapezius is your large, diamond-shaped upper back muscle from neck to mid-back and shoulders. It elevates, retracts, and depresses the scapulae for shrugging, pulling, and posture. Essential for overhead lifts, neck stability, and preventing rounded shoulders.

Trapezius myalgiaTrapezius strainScapular winging

Stretches That May Help

Chin tuck

Upper trap stretch

Neck retraction

Neck flexion stretch

Levator release

Cervical side bend

Chin to chest

Neck rotation stretch

Neck flexion

Side tilt

Chin tuck stretch

Side neck tilt

Suboccipital release

Occipital tuck

Neck extension release

Lateral neck flexion

Suboccipital balango

Side neck extension stretch

Neck rotation with fixation

Ear to shoulder neck stretch

Chin tuck with retraction

Doorway trapezius stretch

Recommended Exercises

When to See a Doctor

Seek medical attention if you experience severe headaches with neck stiffness, fever, visual disturbances, difficulty with balance, or pain following a head or neck injury.