MuscleNeck — lateral

Anterior scalene

Latin: M. scalenus anterior

Location: Neck

View the anterior scalene in 3D

Origin

Anterior tubercles of the transverse processes of C3–C6.

Insertion

Scalene tubercle of the first rib.

Action

Flexes the neck ipsilaterally, rotates it contralaterally and elevates the first rib in forced inspiration.

Nerve supply

Anterior rami of C4–C6.

Blood supply

Ascending cervical artery.

Clinical relevance

It frames the interscalene triangle with the middle scalene — the subclavian artery and brachial plexus cross between them, entrapped in scalenus anticus syndrome.

Educational anatomy reference, not medical advice. About this content.