Skull · Flat bone
Occipital Bone
The occipital bone forms the back and base of the skull. It has a large hole through which the spinal cord connects to the brain, and it forms the joint that lets you nod your head.
What it is
The occipital bone is a curved flat bone at the back and base of the skull, with a central opening (the foramen magnum) for the spinal cord.
Where it is
The back and lower part of the skull.
What it does
Protects the back of the brain (including the visual centres and cerebellum), and forms the joint with the top of the spine that allows the head to nod.
Connections
Joints and connections
- Sutures with the parietal and temporal bones
- Joint with the first neck vertebra (atlas)
When things go wrong
Common injuries and conditions
- Occipital bone fracture (from a blow to the back of the head)
Education and reference only. This explains the anatomy in plain terms; it is not a diagnosis. A severe injury, a visibly deformed limb, or the inability to move or bear weight needs urgent assessment — call 999 or go to A&E for a serious injury.
Did you know?
An interesting fact
The large hole in the occipital bone — the foramen magnum — is where the brainstem passes through to become the spinal cord.
Answers
Occipital Bone: frequently asked questions
What is the occipital bone?
The occipital bone forms the back and base of the skull. It has a large hole for the spinal cord and forms the joint that lets the head nod.
Explore the skull
Related bones
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Anatomy and body systems
- Gray's Anatomy for Students (Drake, Vogl, Mitchell)
- TeachMeAnatomy — skeletal system
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