Scalenus
Scalenus
Scalenus (pronunciation: /skeɪˈliːnəs/), is a term used in anatomy to refer to a group of three pairs of muscles in the lateral neck. The term "scalenus" is derived from the Greek word "skalenos," meaning uneven, which refers to the varying lengths of these muscles.
Scalenus Muscles
The scalenus muscles include the Scalenus Anterior, Scalenus Medius, and Scalenus Posterior. These muscles are primarily involved in the lateral flexion of the neck, as well as in the process of respiration.
Scalenus Anterior
The Scalenus Anterior is the smallest and most deeply seated among the scalene muscles. It originates from the transverse processes of the third, fourth, and fifth cervical vertebrae and inserts into the scalene tubercle on the first rib.
Scalenus Medius
The Scalenus Medius is the largest and longest of the scalene muscles. It originates from the transverse processes of the first to seventh cervical vertebrae and inserts into the first rib.
Scalenus Posterior
The Scalenus Posterior is often smaller or sometimes absent. When present, it originates from the transverse processes of the fifth to seventh cervical vertebrae and inserts into the second rib.
Related Terms
- Brachial Plexus: A network of nerves that originate from the neck and provide motor and sensory innervation to the upper limb. The brachial plexus passes between the anterior and medius scalene muscles.
- Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: A condition that occurs when the blood vessels or nerves between the collarbone and the first rib (thoracic outlet) are compressed. This can cause pain in the shoulders and neck and numbness in the fingers. The scalene muscles are often implicated in this syndrome.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Scalenus
- Wikipedia's article - Scalenus
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