Longus colli muscle is a muscle located in the neck region of the human body. It is a thin, elongated muscle that is found in the deep layers of the neck muscles. The word “longus” in its name refers to its elongated shape, while “colli” refers to its location in the neck.
Structure
The Longus colli muscle is composed of three parts: the superior part, the intermediate part, and the inferior part.
- The superior part is the smallest and is located at the top of the muscle. It arises from the transverse processes of the upper three cervical vertebrae and inserts into the anterior tubercles of the transverse processes of the lower two cervical vertebrae.
- The intermediate part is the longest and widest part of the muscle. It arises from the transverse processes of the lower two cervical vertebrae and inserts into the bodies of the lower three cervical vertebrae.
- The inferior part is located at the bottom of the muscle and arises from the transverse processes of the lower two cervical vertebrae. It inserts into the anterior tubercles of the transverse processes of the lower two cervical vertebrae.
Location
The Longus colli muscle is located in the neck region of the human body. It is found deep within the neck muscles, beneath the sternocleidomastoid muscle. It is situated in the posterior triangle of the neck, which is a triangular region bounded by the sternocleidomastoid muscle, the clavicle, and the posterior border of the sternocleidomastoid muscle.
Function
The primary function of the Longus colli muscle is to flex the neck. It also plays a role in tilting the head to the side and in rotating the neck. When the Longus colli muscle contracts, it brings the head closer to the chest, tilting it to the side, or rotating it to the opposite side.
Clinical significance
The Longus colli muscle can become strained or injured due to a variety of factors, including poor posture, neck strain, or muscle imbalances. This can result in pain and discomfort in the neck region. In severe cases, the Longus colli muscle may become inflamed, leading to swelling and difficulty in moving the neck. Treatment for Longus colli muscle injuries may involve rest, ice therapy, and physical therapy. In some cases, medication or injections may be necessary to manage pain and inflammation.
It is important to maintain good posture and to practice proper neck stretching and strengthening exercises to prevent injuries to the Longus colli muscle. This can help to maintain the flexibility and strength of the neck muscles and reduce the risk of neck pain and discomfort.
