Occipital Bone
The occipital bone is a flat bone located at the back of the head. It forms the base of the skull and provides attachment points for muscles that move the head and neck. The occipital bone also houses the foramen magnum, which is an opening through which the spinal cord passes.
Structure
The occipital bone is composed of four parts: two squamous portions, two lateral masses, and a basilar part. The squamous portions form the sides of the skull and are connected to each other by a curved line called the lambdoid suture. The lateral masses are located on either side of the foramen magnum and contain several openings for blood vessels and nerves. The basilar part forms the base of the skull and contains several openings for blood vessels and nerves as well.
Function
The occipital bone serves several important functions in the body. It provides structural support for the head and neck, protects the brain from injury, and houses several important structures such as the foramen magnum. Additionally, it provides attachment points for muscles that move the head and neck.