Origin
Superior nuchal line, external occipital protuberance, nuchal ligament & spinous processes C7 – T12
Insertion
Lateral third of clavicle, acromion & spine of scapula
Actions
- Elevate & depress scapula
- Scapula adduction
- Scapula rotation
- Neck extension & lateral flexion
Innervation
- Spinal accessory nerve (cranial nerve XI) (motor fibres)
- C3, C4 cervical spinal nerves (pain and proprioceptive fibres)
Blood Supply
- Cervical artery
- Dorsal scapular artery
- Posterior intercostal arterial branches
Would you like to learn more about the trapezius muscle? Then check out the trapezius muscle article and video by clicking the link below: Trapezius Muscle Anatomy