Research Corner - Q&A Cervical Flexors by Noah Hittner | Date Released : 17 May 2005 0 comments Print Close Question: I am trying to figure out where/what are the cervical flexors and how they work in the body. Thank you very much for your time! Answer The cervical flexors are muscles of the cervical spine. The primary cervical flexors are detailed below. It is important to note that the last two (Longus Colli and Longus Capitis) are considered the "deep" cervical flexors. Weakness in the deep cervical flexors is very common in those who display a forward head posture. Forward head posture, hand-in-hand with rounded shoulders, is commonly found in those with "upper crossed" posture. Upper crossed posture can result in many unwanted symptoms such as headaches, neck and shoulder pain and more. For a taste of the complexities as well as the importance of maintaining health in this region of the body, check out "Scientific Balance Training" by Paul Chek, particularly parts 4a and 4b. Sternocleidomastoid Origin Sternum and clavicle Insertion Mastoid process (base of back of skull behind the ear) Function Concentric Acceleration of lateral flexion, rotation and flexion of the cervical spine Eccentric Deceleration of lateral extension, rotation and extension of the cervical spine Isometric/dynamic stabilization of the cervical spine Anterior Scalene *There are also lateral & posterior scalenes) Origin Transverse processes of C3-C6 Insertion 1st rib Function Concentric Acceleration of flexion of the cervical spine Eccentric Deceleration of extension of the cervical spine Isometric/dynamic stabilization of the cervical spine Longus Colli Origin Anterior T1-T3 Insertion Anterior/lateral C1 Function Concentric Acceleration of lateral flexion, rotation and flexion of the cervical spine Eccentric Deceleration of lateral extension, rotation and extension of the cervical spine Isometric/dynamic stabilization of the cervical spine Longus Capitis Origin Transverse Processes of C3-C6 Insertion Inferior occipital bone Function Concentric Acceleration of flexion of the cervical spine Eccentric Deceleration of extension of the cervical spine Isometric/dynamic stabilization of the cervical spine Back to top About the author: Noah Hittner In his time in the health and fitness industry, Noah Hittner worked with a wide range of clientele—from the high school athlete to the senior citizen. This experience, in great part, still inspires his work today. Now, years past his days as a fitness professional, Noah has turned his focus to writing and music. His books and songs explore the process of human consciousness and the quest for personal freedom. Noah now approaches his work, as well as his life, with self-honesty as his first intention and his top priority. It is with this intention in mind that he aims to connect with the lives of as many people as possible in an inspiring and empowering way. Noah's books include The Modern-Day Buddha, Beyond Victim and Villain, and Something to Give Back. 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