LIGAMENTUM NUCHCAE Meaning and
Definition
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The term "ligamentum nuchcae" refers to a specific anatomical structure located in the upper cervical spine region of mammals, including humans. It is a thick and fibrous band of connective tissue that runs longitudinally along the back of the neck, just below the occipital bone at the base of the skull, and inserts into the spinous process of the seventh cervical vertebra (C7).
The ligamentum nuchcae is part of the nuchal ligament system, which also includes other ligaments and tendons in the same area. It serves several important functions. Firstly, it provides stability and support to the cervical spine, helping to maintain the head in an upright position. Additionally, it acts as a passive restraint, limiting excessive flexion and extension movements of the neck.
The ligamentum nuchcae is composed predominantly of dense connective tissue fibers, including collagen, which are arranged in a parallel manner. This fibrous structure grants the ligament its strength and resilience. Although the ligament is relatively stiff, it does possess some elasticity, enabling it to absorb and dissipate forces to protect the cervical spine from injury.
In medical and anatomical contexts, understanding the ligamentum nuchcae is crucial for clinicians, researchers, and students studying the neck region. Its precise function and structure contribute to the overall stability and mobility of the cervical spine, ensuring proper head posture and protecting against excessive movement that may lead to strain or injury.
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The strong ligamentous band at the back of the neck, formed of thickened supraspinous vertebral ligaments, attached above to the occipital crest from the external occipital protuberance to the posterior border of the foramen magnum.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for LIGAMENTUM NUCHCAE
- ligamentum nuchcam
- ligamentum nuchcaa
- ligamentum nuchcag
- l igamentum nuchcae
- li gamentum nuchcae
- lig amentum nuchcae
- liga mentum nuchcae
- ligam entum nuchcae
- ligame ntum nuchcae
- ligamen tum nuchcae
- ligament um nuchcae
- ligamentu m nuchcae
- ligamentum n uchcae
- ligamentum nu chcae
- ligamentum nuc hcae
- ligamentum nuch cae
- ligamentum nuchc ae
- ligamentum nuchca e
Etymology of LIGAMENTUM NUCHCAE
The word "ligamentum nuchcae" is derived from Latin.
- "Ligamentum" comes from the Latin root word "ligāmentum", which means "band" or "tie". In anatomy, it refers to a fibrous connective tissue that connects bones or cartilages, providing support and stability to a joint.
- "Nuchcae" is the genitive form of "nucha", also derived from Latin, which refers to the nape of the neck or the back of the head.
Therefore, "ligamentum nuchcae" can be translated as "ligament of the nape" or "ligament of the back of the head". This term specifically refers to a ligament in the human neck region that connects the cervical vertebrae to the back of the skull, providing support and restricting certain movements.
