The levator scapulae is a strap-like muscle at the back and side of the neck. It arises from the transverse processes of the upper four cervical vertebrae and inserts on the superior angle and upper medial border of the scapula. The dorsal scapular nerve and cervical nerves supply it. It elevates the scapula and rotates it downward.
| Origin | Posterior tubercles of the transverse processes of C1 to C4. |
|---|---|
| Insertion | Superior angle and medial border of the scapula above the scapular spine. |
| Innervation | Dorsal scapular nerve (C5) and cervical spinal nerves C3-C4. |
| Blood supply | Dorsal scapular artery and transverse cervical artery. |
| Action | Elevates the scapula and rotates the glenoid cavity downward; when the scapula is fixed it bends the neck to the same side. |
3D model: BodyParts3D (CC BY 4.0), adult male reference anatomy. Highlighted structure shown with nearby bones for context.
The levator scapulae lies deep to the trapezius and sternocleidomastoid. It is a common source of stiff neck symptoms after sustained postures such as prolonged desk work.
It lifts the scapula and helps rotate it downward, as in shrugging.
It arises from the transverse processes of C1 to C4 and inserts on the superior angle and upper medial border of the scapula.
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