Quick Overview
What is Occipitalis Muscle? The occipitalis muscle is a thin, quadrilateral muscle located at the back of the head. It is responsible for pulling the scalp backwards and wrinkling the back of the head.
It is attached to the occipital bone at the back of the skull and to the epicranial aponeurosis, i.e a thick fibrous sheet that covers the top of the head. The occipitalis muscle is innervated by the facial nerve and supplied blood by the occipital artery.
Table of Contents
Anatomy
The Occipitalis muscle is situated in the posterior region of the scalp. It is part of the occipitofrontalis muscle group, which also includes the Frontalis muscle. The Occipitalis muscle connects to the occipital bone and the connective tissue (galea aponeurotica) of the scalp.
| Muscle | Description |
| Origin | Occipital bone, mastoid process of temporal bone |
| Insertion | Epicranial aponeurosis |
| Blood supply | Occipital artery |
| Nerve supply | Facial Nerve |
| Functions | Pulls the scalp backwards and wrinkles the back of the head |
Location
This muscle is located at the back of the head, above the neck muscles. It extends from the occipital bone at the back of the skull down to the epicranial aponeurosis.
Function
It is mainly responsible for pulling the scalp backwards and wrinkling the back of the head. It is also involved in other head movements, such as tilting the head back and rotating the head from side to side.
Nerve Supply
Like many other facial muscles, it is also is innervated by the facial nerve, also known as cranial nerve VII. This nerve provides the necessary signals for muscle contraction and function.
Blood Supply
The occipitalis muscle is supplied blood by the occipital artery. The occipital artery is a branch of the external carotid artery.
Common Occipitalis Muscle Issues
Some common muscle issues include:
1- Tension headaches: Tension headaches are the most common type of headache. They are often caused by stress or muscle tension in the neck and shoulders. This muscle can be involved in tension headaches.
2- Migraines: Migraines are severe headaches that are often accompanied by other symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. The occipitalis muscle can also be involved in migraines.
3- Scalp pain: Scalp pain can be caused by a number of factors, including tension, stress, and inflammation. The occipitalis muscle can be involved in scalp pain.
Exercises for the Occipitalis Muscle
There are a number of exercises that can be used to strengthen and stretch the occipitalis muscle. Some common exercises include:
- Chin tucks: To do a chin tuck, sit up straight with your shoulders relaxed. Slowly tuck your chin towards your chest. Hold the tucked position for a few seconds and then slowly release.
- Head tilts: To do a head tilt, sit up straight with your shoulders relaxed. Slowly tilt your head to the right side. Hold the tilted position for a few seconds and then slowly tilt your head to the left side.
- Scalp massage: Scalp massage can help to relax the muscles in the scalp, including the occipitalis muscle. To massage your scalp, gently massage the back of your head in a circular motion.
Questions
Q-1: What is the role of the Occipitalis muscle in facial expressions?
It contributes to facial expressions by allowing the scalp to move backward. This movement is particularly evident when you raise your eyebrows or express surprise.
Q-2: How can I relieve tension and headaches associated with the Occipitalis muscle?
Tension and headaches related to this muscle can be alleviated through stress management techniques, regular scalp massages, and neck stretches. These methods promote relaxation and blood circulation in the area.
Q-3: Does the Occipitalis muscle receive its blood supply from specific arteries?
Yes, It is supplied with blood by the branches of the occipital artery. Adequate blood supply is essential for maintaining the muscle’s health and function.
Q-4: Is the Occipitalis muscle controlled by a specific cranial nerve?
Yes, like many facial muscles, this muscle is innervated by the facial nerve (cranial nerve VII). This nerve provides the necessary signals for muscle contraction and movement.
Q-5: Can exercises for the Occipitalis muscle improve scalp and facial health?
Yes, exercises such as scalp massages and neck stretches can indirectly benefit to this muscle by promoting blood circulation, reducing tension, and improving overall scalp and facial health. These exercises can contribute to a more relaxed and comfortable experience.