Splenius capitis acts unilaterally to produce which motion?

Master the Back Muscles: Origins, Insertions, Actions and Innervations with a comprehensive quiz. Engage with diverse question formats, including multiple choice and flashcards, each supplemented with hints and explanations. Ensure your readiness for academic and professional success!

Multiple Choice

Splenius capitis acts unilaterally to produce which motion?

Explanation:
Unilateral contraction of the Splenius capitis pulls the head toward the same side and bends the neck to that side. Because the muscle crosses from the spine to the back of the skull, it shortens on one side to rotate the face to that same side and to produce lateral flexion (ipsilateral flexion) of the head. This matches the chosen option, which describes ipsilateral flexion and rotation. Bilateral contraction would extend the head, and motions like contralateral rotation or trunk flexion aren’t produced by the Splenius capitis when acting on one side.

Unilateral contraction of the Splenius capitis pulls the head toward the same side and bends the neck to that side. Because the muscle crosses from the spine to the back of the skull, it shortens on one side to rotate the face to that same side and to produce lateral flexion (ipsilateral flexion) of the head. This matches the chosen option, which describes ipsilateral flexion and rotation. Bilateral contraction would extend the head, and motions like contralateral rotation or trunk flexion aren’t produced by the Splenius capitis when acting on one side.

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