Occipital bone

Definition

The occipital bone is a cranial dermal bone located at the posterior part of the skull and is crucial in encasing and protecting the brain. It articulates with the first cervical vertebra (atlas) and contains the foramen magnum, through which the spinal cord connects to the brain.

Related terms

Foramen Magnum: A large opening in the occipital bone through which the spinal cord passes to connect with the brain.

Atlas (C1 vertebra): The first cervical vertebra, which articulates with the occipital bone to support nodding and rotation movements of head.

Cranial Sutures:

The fibrous joints connecting cranial bones, including where the occipital bone meets parietal and temporal bones