What muscle forms the superolateral boundary of the suboccipital triangle?

What muscle forms the superolateral boundary of the suboccipital triangle?

• A. Rectus capitis posterior major
• B. Obliquus capitis inferior
• C. Obliquus capitis superior
• D. Rectus capitis lateralis

Answer: (C)

The superolateral boundary of the suboccipital triangle is formed by the obliquus capitis superior. This muscle runs from the transverse process of the atlas (C1) to the occipital bone, creating the upper lateral edge of the triangle. The triangle’s other borders are the medial edge by the rectus capitis posterior major and the inferior edge by the obliquus capitis inferior, with the roof formed by overlying muscles and fascia. Knowing these borders helps you identify why the obliquus capitis superior sits at that superolateral position.

The superolateral boundary of the suboccipital triangle is formed by the obliquus capitis superior. This muscle runs from the transverse process of the atlas (C1) to the occipital bone, creating the upper lateral edge of the triangle. The triangle’s other borders are the medial edge by the rectus capitis posterior major and the inferior edge by the obliquus capitis inferior, with the roof formed by overlying muscles and fascia. Knowing these borders helps you identify why the obliquus capitis superior sits at that superolateral position.