How Do You Spell OCCIPITAL POINT?

1. The occipital point refers to a specific anatomical landmark located at the posterior aspect of the human skull, specifically on the occipital bone. It is situated near the midline and corresponds to the external occipital protuberance. The occipital bone, forming the lower and back portion of the cranium, is one of the main bones that constructs the human skull. The occipital point is easily palpable, prominent, and identifiable on the surface of the head.

   The occipital point serves various important functions. One of its primary purposes is the attachment site for several muscles and ligaments. It provides a site of origin for muscles involved in neck movement, such as the trapezius and sternocleidomastoid muscles. Additionally, it acts as an attachment point for the nuchal ligament, which supports the head and assists in maintaining an upright posture.

   Furthermore, the occipital point has clinical significance in various fields. In forensic medicine, it can be helpful for identifying sex, age, and race during skeletal analysis. In neurology, it is a crucial reference point for assessing skull fractures or injuries, particularly those affecting the occipital bone. Additionally, in craniosacral therapy, the occipital point plays a role in evaluating the subtle movement and balance of cerebrospinal fluid within the cranial cavity.

   In summary, the occipital point is a distinctive anatomical landmark located on the posterior aspect of the skull. Its palpable prominence, muscular attachments, and clinical significance make it a significant point of interest in various medical and anatomical disciplines.

2. The most prominent posterior point on the occipital bone above the inion.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for OCCIPITAL POINT

The word "occipital" is derived from the Latin word "occiput", which refers to the back of the head. It is formed from the combination of "ob" meaning "against" and "caput" meaning "head". The suffix "-al" in "occipital" indicates its adjectival form.

The word "point" comes from the Latin word "punctum", which means "a prick" or "a dot". It is related to the verb "pungere", which means "to prick" or "to stab". "Point" has retained its meaning over time, referring to a small and sharp end or the mark created by a fine tip.

Therefore, the etymology of the term "occipital point" combines the Latin roots for the back of the head with the notion of a small mark or dot, possibly referring to a specific spot on the occiput.