The origin of the splenius cervicis is from which vertebral spinous processes?

• A. Spinous processes of C5-C7.
• B. Transverse processes of C1-C3.
• C. Spinous processes of T3-T6.
• D. Spinous processes of T2-T4.

Answer: (C)

Splenius cervicis belongs to the superficial layer of intrinsic back muscles and has a lower-to-upper course: its origin sits on the spinous processes of the lower thoracic vertebrae, and its fibers ascend to the upper cervical region. The typical origin is from the spinous processes of the third through the sixth thoracic vertebrae (T3–T6). From there, the fibers run upward to insert on the transverse processes of the upper cervical vertebrae (C1–C3). This exact origin location explains why the choice listing the spinous processes of T3–T6 is the best answer. The other options describe either insertion sites (transverse processes of C1–C3) or different thoracic levels not usually associated with this muscle’s origin (such as C5–C7 or T2–T4).