Name

# Rectus Capitis Anterior

Pronunciation

(REK-tus CAP-i-tus ant-E-ri-or)

Origin/Proximal Attachment

Anterior aspect of transverse process of atlas (C1)

Insertion/Distal Attachment

Occipital bone - anterior to foramen magnum

Action/Relevance

Flexes head

Innervation

Ventral rami (C2, 3)

Notes

The Rectus capitis anterior (Rectus capitis anticus minor) is a short, flat muscle, situated immediately behind the upper part of the Longus capitis. It arises from the anterior surface of the lateral mass of the atlas, and from the root of its transverse process, and passing obliquely upward and medialward, is inserted into the inferior surface of the basilar part of the occipital bone immediately in front of the foramen magnum.