Occipitalis muscle

Occipitalis Muscle

The Occipitalis muscle (pronunciation: /ɒksɪˈpɪtəlɪs ˈmʌsəl/) is a thin, quadrilateral muscle located at the back of the head that covers parts of the skull's occipital bone.

Etymology

The term "Occipitalis" is derived from the Latin word "Occiput," which refers to the back part of the skull. The term "muscle" comes from the Latin "musculus," meaning "little mouse," due to the muscle's resemblance to a mouse in motion when it contracts.

Anatomy

The Occipitalis muscle is part of the Epicranius muscle or the occipitofrontalis muscle, which also includes the Frontalis muscle. It is connected to the frontalis muscle by the Galea aponeurotica, a tough layer of dense fibrous tissue.

The occipitalis muscle originates from the occipital bone and the mastoid part of the Temporal bone. It inserts into the galea aponeurotica.

Function

The primary function of the Occipitalis muscle is to move the scalp back. When it contracts, it pulls the scalp backward. This muscle also aids in facial expressions, particularly those that demonstrate surprise or fear.

Related Terms

• Epicranius muscle
• Frontalis muscle
• Galea aponeurotica
• Temporal bone
• Occipital bone

See Also

• Muscular system
• Anatomy of the human head

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Occipitalis muscle
• Wikipedia's article - Occipitalis muscle

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