Ligamentum nuchae

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Ligamentum Nuchae

The Ligamentum Nuchae is a significant anatomical structure in the vertebrate skeletal system. It is a large, elastic ligament that extends from the external occipital protuberance on the back of the skull and the posterior border of the foramen magnum to the seventh cervical vertebra in the neck, also known as the vertebra prominens.

Structure[edit | edit source]

The Ligamentum Nuchae is a continuation of the supraspinous ligament and is composed of yellow elastic tissue. It is broad, thick, and somewhat triangular in shape, with its base attached to the skull and its apex fixed to the seventh cervical vertebra.

Function[edit | edit source]

The Ligamentum Nuchae serves several important functions in the body. It acts as a support for the muscles of the back and neck, allowing them to maintain the posture of the head. It also serves as a protective barrier, shielding the delicate spinal cord and nervous system from damage.

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

Injuries or conditions affecting the Ligamentum Nuchae can have serious implications for an individual's health. These can include whiplash, a common injury in car accidents, and ankylosing spondylitis, a type of arthritis that affects the spine.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

Ligamentum nuchae Resources
Wikipedia
WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD