Nuchal Ligament
(Redirected from Nuchal ligament)
Description
Name
- Nuchal ligament
- Ligamentum Nuchae
Description
- Thick, triangular, fibroelastic band at the back of the neck
- Extends between the base of the skull and C7 in the midline
- Originates from the external occipital protuberance, posterior border foramen magnum, posterior border of C1
- Inserts along the apices of the remaining cervical spinous processes
- Apex of the ligament attaches to the tip of the SP of C7
Function
- Support the head
- Resists flexion
- Restores the head to its anatomical position
- Surface for attachment of muscles of the posterior neck and shoulder
Clinical Significance
- Needs to be updated
See Also
References
- ↑ Image courtesy of elsevier.com
- ↑ Zhang, Baoliang, et al. "Potential link between ossification of nuchal ligament and the risk of cervical ossification of posterior longitudinal ligament: evidence and clinical implication from a meta‐analysis of 8429 participants." Orthopaedic Surgery 13.3 (2021): 1055-1066.