Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025
Definition
The iliocostalis cervicis is a muscle of the back, part of the iliocostalis group within the erector spinae muscles, extending from the upper ribs to the cervical vertebrae. It assists in extending and laterally flexing the neck.
Erector spinae: A group of muscles and tendons which run nearly the entire length of the spine, responsible for extending and rotating the back.
Lateral flexion: The movement that brings either side of the body closer to the arm on that same side, involved in bending your neck or trunk to the side.
Cervical vertebrae: The seven vertebrae forming the upper part of the spine located in the neck region