Rectus capitis lateralis

The rectus capitis lateralis muscle is a short, most laterally located prevertebral muscle. Like the other muscles of the group, it is also situated anterior to the spine. The rectus capitis lateralis stretches between the first cervical vertebra (atlas; C1) and the external cranial base. Along with the rectus capitis anterior muscle, it is sometimes referred to as one of the anterior suboccipital muscles.