Posterior Scalene
Original Editor - Wendy Walker
Lead Editors - Kim Jackson, Wendy Walker, Evan Thomas, Janine van Dyk, Daphne Jackson and WikiSysop
Description
Posterior Scalene, AKA Scalenus Posterior, is one of the lateral muscles of the neck, belonging to the Scalene group. It is deeply placed, lying behind Sternocleidomastoid.
Origin
It originates from the posterior tubercles of the transverse processes of the last three or four cervical vertebrae.[1]
Insertion
It inserts on the anterior aspect of the second rib.[1]
Nerve Supply
- Branchial Plexus C6 to 8
- Branches of the ventral rami of cervical spinal nerves C6 to 8[1]
Blood Supply
Ascending cervical artery and superficial cervical artery
Function
Clinical Relevance
The elevation of the first and second ribs increases intrathoracic volume, allowing them to function as accessory muscles of respiration, particularly in patients experiencing respiratory distress.
The Posterior scalene does not play a roll in Thoracic outlet syndrome.[2]
Assessment
Palpation:
- Locate the clavicular head of the sternocleidomastiod (SCM) muscle and work around it.Do not palpate through the SCM.
- Then palpate lateral to the SCM to find scalene posterior and medius.[4]
Treatment
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 Connolly MR, Auchincloss HG. Anatomy and Embryology of the Thoracic Outlet. Thoracic Surgery Clinics. 2021 Feb;31(1):1–10.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 Connolly MR, Auchincloss HG. Anatomy and Embryology of the Thoracic Outlet. Thoracic Surgery Clinics. 2021 Feb;31(1):1–10.
- ↑ Buford JA, Yoder SM, Deborah Givens Heiss, Chidley JV. Actions of the Scalene Muscles for Rotation of the Cervical Spine in Macaque and Human. Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy. 2002 Oct 1;32(10):488–96.
- ↑ Kennedy, Mercer SR. The posterior triangle of the neck: Where is scalenus anterior? New Zealand Journal of Physiotherapy. 2006 Jan 1;34(4):142–6.