Anatomy
Origin
spinous processes of C7-T4
Insertion
mastoid process of the temporal & occipital bone
Action
(Bilateral)-extension of the head.
(Unilateral)-ipsilateral flexion & rotation of the head
Clinical information
Symptoms
Pain appears in the neck, vertex, temples and eyes. A stiff neck with pain limits the range of motion, but it is less worse than the condition caused by levator scapulae. Such symptoms mostly appear in patients with the prolonged anterior head positioning with rounded shoulders.
Related muscle
Synergistic with semispinalis capitis and cervicis, levator scapulae, upper trapezius, and neck flexor muscles; Antagonist with sternocleidomastoid.
Taping
Required Tape : 5cm, Y Tape
Patient position : Sitting
How to Tape
Place the base of the Y-shaped tape over the center of T4 spine.
Apply the tape towards the mastoid process while flexing & rotating the head contra-lateral side.
You may apply the tape along the side of hairline toward the mastoid process.