Which muscle group includes the splenius capitis?

The splenius capitis is part of the superficial back muscles because it primarily functions to extend and rotate the head and neck. Superficial back muscles, including the splenius capitis, are generally involved in movements related to the posture and mobility of the cervical spine. These muscles are located on the posterior aspect of the neck and are responsible for extending flexed necks and assisting in the rotation of the head towards the same side of the muscle contraction.

In contrast, deep cervical flexors are primarily responsible for flexing the neck and chin toward the chest, while anterior vertebral muscles are more focused on movements like neck flexion or stabilization of the cervical spine. Lateral flexors typically refer to muscles that laterally bend the spine, which does not specifically apply to the action of the splenius capitis. Understanding the functional roles and positioning of these muscle groups assists in identifying the correct classification of the splenius capitis.