Corpus: Obliquus superior capitis muscle

The obliquus capitis superior muscle is a skeletal muscle located in the neck, part of the autochthonous back musculature.

The obliquus capitis superior muscle originates from the transverse process of the atlas (the 1st cervical vertebra). It runs obliquely upward to attach to the lateral third of the inferior nuchal line on the occipital bone.

The muscle is innervated by the lateral branches of the posterior rami of the spinal nerves from segments C1 and C2. The dorsal ramus of the first spinal nerve is specifically known as the suboccipital nerve.

When contracted on one side, the obliquus capitis superior muscle tilts the head to the same side. When contracted on both sides, it assists in dorsiflexion of the head.