The Levator Scapulae Muscle is a muscle located in the posterolateral region of the neck and is responsible for elevating the scapula. It lies beneath the trapezius muscle and plays an important role in shoulder stabilization.

Anatomy

Morphology and Connection Points

The Levator Scapulae Muscle is a long, narrow muscle located in the posterolateral region of the neck. It helps elevate the scapula. It is located deep within the neck, beneath the trapezius and sternocleidomastoid muscles. This anatomical location contributes to head and neck movements and plays a key role in the stability of the shoulder girdle. The muscle originates from the posterior tubercles of the transverse processes of the C1-C4 cervical vertebrae and inserts into the superior aspect of the medial scapula. These connections generate force on both the scapula and neck, and their contraction supports various shoulder movements.

Embryological Origin and Classification

The Levator Scapulae Muscle originates embryologically from cervical myotomes that develop from paraxial mesoderm. Functionally, it is located among the muscles of the shoulder girdle, supporting movements between the axial and appendicular skeletons. Developmentally, it is closely related to the trapezius and sternocleidomastoid muscles.

Nerve Innervation and Vascular Supply

The muscle's primary nerve innervation is provided by the dorsalis scapulae nerve (C5); it may also receive additional branches from spinal nerves C3 and C4. Although the accessorus nerve (cranial nerve XI) passes over the muscle, it does not directly innervate it. Vascular supply is provided by the transverse cervical artery and the dorsal scapular artery.

Function and Clinical Relationships

The Levator Scapulae Muscle plays an active role in movements such as shrugging and carrying weights by pulling the scapula upward. When the shoulder is stationary, it bends the neck to the same side (ipsilateral flexion) and contributes to the downward rotation of the glenoid fossa. It facilitates postural balance by providing force transmission between the neck and shoulder. Clinically, muscle spasm and pain, known as "levator scapula syndrome," can occur in cases of overuse, particularly those resulting from desk work or repetitive shoulder movements. Furthermore, the accessory nerve (n. accessorius), which is closely associated with the muscle, is an anatomical structure that must be carefully preserved in neck surgery. Weakness or dysfunction of the muscle can lead to shoulder asymmetry and postural deformities. Therefore, the levator scapulae is a muscle of significant importance in functional and clinical evaluations.