It attaches inferiorly at the transverse process of the atlas (first cervical vertebra); it attaches superiorly at the external surface of the occipital bone.

[1] The muscle's inferior attachment is at the superior surface of the transverse process of the atlas (C1).

[1][2] Its superior attachment is onto the lateral portion of[2] the external surface of the occipital bone between the superior nuchal line and inferior nuchal line.

[1][2] Its superior attachment is situated lateral to that of the semispinalis capitis muscle, and overlaps the attachment of the rectus capitis posterior major muscle.

[1][2] The muscle extends[1] and (ipsilaterally) laterally flexes the head.