Levator Scapulae

Description
[edit | edit source]

Levator scapulae connects the upper limb to the vertebral column and lies in the posterior triangle of the neck

Its superior aspect is covered by Sternocleidomastoid, and its inferior part by Trapezius

Levator scapulae muscle animation small2.gif

Origin[edit | edit source]

C1 to 4

Posterior tubercle of transverse process of Cervical Vertebrae 1 to 4[1]

Insertion[edit | edit source]

Scapula

Vertebral margin of the scapula, between the superior angle and the root of the spine[2]

Nerve Supply[edit | edit source]

C3 to 5

Cervical nerve (C3, C4) and dorsal scapular nerve (C5)[3]

Blood Supply[edit | edit source]

Descending scapular artery[4]

Action[edit | edit source]

Elevation and rotation of the scapula[1]

Function[edit | edit source]

Elevation of the scapula, and rotation of it inferior angle medially, in movements such as elevation of the upper limb

If the scapula is fixed, it helps produce cervical side flexion[2]

References[edit | edit source]

  1. 1.0 1.1 http://www.anatomyexpert.com/structure_detail/5502/
  2. 2.0 2.1 http://www.wheelessonline.com/ortho/levator_scapula
  3. http://www.bartleby.com/107/121.html
  4. Joseph P Iannotti, Richard Parker.fckLRThe Netter Collection of Medical Illustrations: Musculoskeletal System, Volume 6, Part I - Upper Limb. Elsevier Health Sciences. 2012