A large, diamond-shaped muscle extending from the occipital bone to the lower thoracic vertebrae and laterally to the spine of the scapula. It moves the scapula and supports the arm.
Scalenes
A group of three pairs of muscles in the lateral neck: the anterior, middle, and posterior scalenes. They assist in neck flexion and are accessory muscles of respiration.
Levator Scapulae
A skeletal muscle situated at the back and side of the neck. As its name suggests, its main function is to lift the scapula (shoulder blade).
Sternocleidomastoid
A prominent, dual-headed muscle of the neck. Commonly referred to as the SCM, it originates from the sternum and clavicle and inserts into the mastoid process. It facilitates head rotation and flexion.
Obturator Internus
A muscle situated partly within the lesser pelvis and partly at the back of the hip joint. It is one of the “deep six” lateral rotators of the hip.
Gemellus Inferior
A small muscle located deep in the gluteal region. It arises from the ischial tuberosity and acts as a lateral rotator of the hip and stabilizer of the hip joint.
Gemellus Superior
A small, deep hip muscle that arises from the ischial spine and assists the obturator internus in the lateral rotation of the thigh.
Tensor Fasciae Latae
A muscle of the thigh that inserts into the iliotibial (IT) band. It assists in hip flexion, abduction, and medial rotation, while helping to stabilize the knee.