Interspinalis Cervicis
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The interspinales cervicis are six pairs of tiny muscles connecting neighbouring cervical vertebrae. Despite their small size, they contribute heavily to proprioception — helping the nervous system constantly sense the position and movement of the neck.
Function
Assists with extension of the cervical spine, stabilizes adjacent cervical vertebrae, and contributes to fine postural control and proprioception of the neck. Because these muscles span only one vertebral level, they suit precise segmental control rather than powerful movement.
Origin
Superior surfaces of the spinous processes of C3–T1.
Insertion
Inferior surfaces of the spinous processes of the immediately superior vertebrae, C2–C7.
Innervation
Posterior (dorsal) rami of cervical spinal nerves, primarily through the medial branches supplying the deep intrinsic spinal musculature.