MuscleNeck — posterior
Levator scapulae
Latin: M. levator scapulae
Location: Neck
View the levator scapulae in 3DOrigin
Transverse processes of C1–C4.
Insertion
Superior angle and upper medial border of the scapula.
Action
Elevates the scapula and, with the scapula fixed, flexes the neck laterally and rotates it ipsilaterally.
Nerve supply
Dorsal scapular nerve (C5) and C3–C4 direct branches.
Blood supply
Transverse cervical artery.
Clinical relevance
A common source of neck and upper-shoulder pain ('stiff neck'), tender at its insertion on the superior angle of the scapula.
Educational anatomy reference, not medical advice. About this content.