The Suboccipitals Muscle Group

The suboccipitals are located in the back of the neck. This group of muscles is comprised of oblique capitis superior, oblique capitis inferior, rectus capitus posterior major, and rectus capitis posterior minor.

They are sometimes knows as ghost headache muscles because it is difficult to pinpoint where the referred pain is coming from.

All 4 of these muscles are responsible for starting head movements and all attach on C1-C2.

The muscle study aid is below for massage therapy students.

Oblique Capitis Superior

Insertion is inferior nuchal line.

Actions--rotates head and extends head.

Oblique Capitis Inferior

Insertion is transverse process of C1.

Action--rotates head.

Rectus Capitis Posterior Major

Insertion is inferior nuchal line.

Actions--extends the head and rotates the head.

Rectus Capitis Posterior Minor

Insertion is inferior nuchal line.

Action--extends head.

Tension in this muscle causes vascular headaches as it attaches to the dura mater.

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