Ligamentum nuchae
Original Editor - Rachael Lowe
Top Contributors - Rachael Lowe, Kim Jackson, Wendy Snyders, WikiSysop, Mande Jooste and Lucinda hampton
Description[edit | edit source]
The ligamentum nuchae is continuous with the supraspinous ligament[1][2]. It forms a two-layered fibroelastic septum. This septum consists of the dorsal raphe and medial septal part[1]. It stretches during flexion and its elasticity helps bring the head back to an upright position[2].
Origin[edit | edit source]
The external occipital protuberance[1][2]. The deep fibers of the ligament attach to the external occipital crest and the posterior tubercle of the atlas[3]. It also blends into the posterior atlanto-occipital membrane and the posterior atlanto-axial membrane[1].
Insertion[edit | edit source]
Function[edit | edit source]
Limits hyperflexion of the neck[1][3].
Provides an attachment for trapezius and splenius capitis.
References[edit | edit source]
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 Knipe, H. (2023) Ligamentum nuchae: Radiology reference article, Radiopaedia Blog RSS. Radiopaedia.org. Available at: https://radiopaedia.org/articles/ligamentum-nuchae (Accessed: April 16, 2023).
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 Elsevier: Ludwig Ombregt: A system of Orthopaedic Medicine · 2013 Elsevier: Ludwig Ombregt: A System of Orthopaedic Medicine. Available at: https://www.orthopaedicmedicineonline.com/ (Accessed: April 16, 2023).
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 Takeshita K, Peterson ET, Bylski-Austrow D, Crawford AH, Nakamura K. The nuchal ligament restrains cervical spine flexion. Spine (Phila Pa 1976). 2004 Sep 15;29(18):E388-93.
