Occiput

Occiput is the anatomical term for the posterior (back) portion of the head or skull. In humans, it is the part of the skull where the occipital bone is located.

Anatomy

The occiput is marked by the foramen magnum, a large opening in the skull through which the spinal cord connects with the brain. The occipital bone, which forms the occiput, articulates with the atlas and the parietal bones.

The occiput is subdivided into the basilar part, lateral parts, and the squamous part. The basilar part is a thick, somewhat quadrilateral piece in front of the foramen magnum and directed towards the pharynx. The lateral parts, situated at the sides of the foramen magnum, are fused with the body and the squamous part. The squamous part is the curved, expanded plate behind the foramen magnum and is the largest part of the occipital bone.

Clinical significance

The occiput is of clinical significance in osteopathy and chiropractic, where it is believed to be related to certain types of headache, dizziness, and other conditions. In obstetrics, the position of the fetal occiput is important for the process of labor and delivery.

See also

• Occipital bone
• Foramen magnum
• Atlas (anatomy)
• Parietal bones

Occiput Resources
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