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Rectus capitis anterior

Muscle origin
Anterior surface of lateral mass and transverse process of atlas

Muscle insertion
Inferior surface of basilar part of occipital bone

Muscle function
Flexion and control of Atlantooccipital joint

Nerve innervation
C1-2 (Lovett reactor – L4-5)

Primary muscle type
Tonic / Type I (65-75%)

Primary inhibatory muscles:

  • Neck extensors
  • Scalenes
  • Opposite Psoas

Related joints

  • Occiput-C1
Client is supine with the neck/head in full flexion, 45 deg rotation opposite test test side and chin tucked in. Apply towards extension by trying to push the head down towards the table.

Functional anatomy for

Rectus capitis anterior

Organ relationship (T5-9, n. Vagus)

  • Stomach (AK)
    • Symp – T5-9 (Celiac plexus)
    • Parasymp – CX (Vagus)

Associated muscles

  • Scalenes
  • Subocc

Release exercises

Corrective strength exercises

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