Nervus occipitalis tertius, also known as the third occipital nerve, is a sensory nerve located in the posterior region of the head. Specifically, it arises from the dorsal rami of the third cervical (C3) spinal nerve, branching off near the base of the neck and extending towards the occipital region.
The nervus occipitalis tertius is responsible for providing sensory innervation to the skin on the back of the head, particularly in the area above the nape of the neck and just below the skull. This region includes the occipital bone, which forms the back of the skull, as well as the surrounding muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues.
Individuals may experience pain or discomfort in the territory supplied by the nervus occipitalis tertius due to various factors, such as muscle tension, injury, inflammation, or nerve entrapment. Conditions like occipital neuralgia, which is characterized by severe headaches or shooting pain emanating from the back of the head, may involve the nervus occipitalis tertius and require appropriate medical management or treatment.
Understanding the anatomy and functions of the nervus occipitalis tertius is vital for healthcare professionals, such as neurologists, physiotherapists, or pain specialists, as it plays a crucial role in diagnosing and managing conditions affecting the back of the head and neck region.
