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Physio Energy

Muscles

Splenius capitis

Extends and rotates the head to the same side.

Referred pain map

Splenius capitis
Splenius capitis — trigger point in the upper posterior neck refers strongly to the vertex of the head, producing the classic 'pain on top of the head' pattern.
Splenius capitis
Splenius capitis & cervicis — upper cervical trigger point (splenius capitis) refers to the vertex and behind the eye; upper and lower splenius cervicis trigger points refer through the head to the eye and into the angle of the neck at the shoulder.

Overview

Extends and rotates the head to the same side. Trigger points here are common in everyday and athletic populations and frequently contribute to the referred pain patterns described below.

Trigger point locations

Posterior neck just deep to the upper trapezius, between the occiput and upper thoracic spine.

Referred pain pattern

Vertex of the head — 'pain on top of the head'.

Palpation & testing

Palpate the muscle belly along its accessible course. Reproduction of the patient's familiar pain on palpation supports involvement.

Common causes

Sustained head rotation, side-sleeping with head turned, looking up for long periods.

Self-care & clinical treatment

Chin tucks, side-bend stretches, pillow correction. Clinically: needling and contract-relax.

Symptoms commonly linked

References

  • • Travell & Simons — Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction
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