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Gray's Anatomy anterior neck plate highlighting longus capitis from the cervical transverse processes to the occiput
Gray's Anatomy, modified by Uwe Gille, Wikimedia Commons, public domain Image source

Head and neck / Prevertebral muscles

Longus capitis

Flexes the head and upper cervical spine and contributes to anterior cervical control

Origin
Anterior tubercles of the transverse processes of the third through sixth cervical vertebrae
Insertion
Basilar part of the occipital bone
Primary actions
Flexes the head and upper cervical spine and contributes to anterior cervical control

Anatomy source

OpenStax Anatomy and Physiology 2e — Head, Neck, and Back

Open reference

Educational anatomy reference only. This page does not diagnose pain, injury, or movement limitations.

From anatomy to action

Explore the movement, not just the muscle.

A single muscle rarely explains a movement by itself. Use the related movement content to see how this anatomy may contribute, then choose a focused program when you want a complete progression.

Movement guides and exercises

forward head posture — corrective exercise recipe cover

Capacity focus

Forward Head Posture

Explore a more comfortable head and neck position without forcing a single “perfect” posture.

Open movement guide

Complete guided progressions

Ready to follow a focused plan?

These programs include this muscle through a related guide or corrective recipe.

Neck & Shoulder Reset Anterior Humeral Glide Fix