OCCIPITAL NERVE
\ˈɒksɪpˌɪtə͡l nˈɜːv], \ˈɒksɪpˌɪtəl nˈɜːv], \ˈɒ_k_s_ɪ_p_ˌɪ_t_əl n_ˈɜː_v]\
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It arises from the upper part of the spinal marrow by eight or ten filaments, united in two fasciculi. Thus formed, it passes between the foramen magnum and the posterior arch of the atlas; and, at this place, forms a long ganglion, afterwards dividing into two branches. Of these, the anterior, which is long and small, makes a turn above the transverse process of the atlas and forms an anastomotic noose with a branch of the second cervical nerve. The posterior branch, larger and shorter, divides into seven or eight branches, which are distributed to the muscles of the upper and back part of the neck.
By Robley Dunglison
Word of the day
Snake's-head
- Guinea-hen flower; -- so called in England because its spotted petals resemble the scales of a snake's head.