Anatomy
Back-of-Neck Muscles: Splenius and Levator Scapulae
Beneath the trapezius, two muscles work constantly to hold and turn the head: splenius capitis and levator scapulae. They are behind many cases of wry neck and back-of-neck pain.
- Splenius capitis
- Levator scapulae
Where is it?
Splenius capitis connects the lower neck and upper back vertebrae to the base of the skull. Levator scapulae runs from the top neck vertebrae down to the upper corner of the shoulder blade.
What does it do?
Splenius extends and turns the head. Levator scapulae lifts the shoulder blade and helps bend and turn the neck. Both work hard when the head is held forward.
Common problems
Each problem has its own detailed page: symptoms, causes, treatment and when to seek care.
How we can help
When to seek care
Book an appointment if you cannot turn your head normally, if pain lasts more than a few days or keeps coming back. Pain with numbness, arm weakness, fever or unusual headaches needs medical assessment.
Frequently asked questions
Other areas of the body
Educational content: it does not replace an assessment. Your therapist determines the cause of your symptoms in person.