The Scalenes Muscle Group

The scalenes contain scalenus anterior, scalenus medius, and scalenus posterior.

This muscle group helps to stabilize the neck when the body is moving. These 3 muscles are located on the sides of the neck.

A word of caution--the subclavian artery and the brachial plexus are between the scalenus anterior and the scalenus medius. Care should be taken when working these muscles.

Below is the study guide for these muscles for massage therapy students.

Scalenus Anterior

Insertion: Rib 1

Actions:

Flexes neck laterally

Rotates head

Raises the first rib during inhalation

Scalenus Medius

Insertion: Rib 1

Actions:

Laterally flexes neck

Rotates head

Elevates first rib during inhalation

Scalenus Posterior

Insertion: Rib 2

Actions:

Laterally flexes neck

Rotates head

Elevates second rib during inhalation

Return from Scalenes to Muscles