What are the prevertebral muscles?

The prevertebral muscles are a group of anterior vertebral muscles located in front of the cervical spine. They are covered by the prevertebral fascia and form the posterior boundary of the retropharyngeal space.

What is the main function of the prevertebral muscles?

Their primary action is to flex the neck and head. They are innervated by the ventral rami of cervical spinal nerves.

Which muscles are included in the prevertebral group?

The group includes four muscles: Rectus capitis anterior, Rectus capitis lateralis, Longus colli (longus cervicis), and Longus capitis.

What is the longus colli muscle and what does it do?

The longus colli is the most medial and longest prevertebral muscle, spanning from the atlas to T3. Its actions include bending the neck forward, assisting in lateral flexion, and contributing to contralateral rotation.

How are the rectus capitis muscles innervated?

Both the rectus capitis anterior and rectus capitis lateralis are innervated by the ventral ramus of the C1 spinal nerve.

What is the action of the longus capitis muscle?

The longus capitis muscle flexes the head at the atlanto-occipital joint. It is innervated by branches from the anterior rami of C1–C3 spinal nerves.

Prevertebral Neck Muscles – Longus Colli & Capitis