Muscle
Levator scapulae
Elevates the scapula
High-yield
Elevates scapula and rotates glenoid inferiorly; supplied by dorsal scapular nerve and C3-C4.
Overview
A strap-like muscle deep to trapezius in the posterior neck that elevates the scapula and tilts the glenoid downward.
Reference facts
- Origin
- Transverse processes of C1-C4
- Insertion
- Medial (vertebral) border of the scapula, superior to the spine
- Action
- Elevates the scapula and rotates the glenoid cavity downward
- Innervation
- Dorsal scapular nerve (C5) and cervical nerves C3-C4
- Blood supply
- Dorsal scapular and transverse cervical arteries
Frequently asked questions
What does the levator scapulae do?
The levator scapulae elevates the scapula and rotates the glenoid cavity downward.
What nerve innervates the levator scapulae?
The levator scapulae is innervated by the dorsal scapular nerve (C5) and cervical nerves C3-C4.
Where does the levator scapulae attach?
The levator scapulae originates from the transverse processes of C1-C4 and inserts on the medial (vertebral) border of the scapula, superior to the spine.
What is the blood supply of the levator scapulae?
The levator scapulae is supplied by the dorsal scapular and transverse cervical arteries.