If you've ever noticed a bony lump at the back of your skull, you may be wondering what it is and why it's there. This bone is called the occipital bone, and it's a normal part of the human skull. In this article, we'll explore why the bone in the back of your head sticks out, and provide tips for caring for your hair around this area.
Description of the Occipital Bone
The occipital bone is located at the back of the skull and forms the base of the skull. It is one of the four major bones that make up the cranium, along with the frontal bone, parietal bones, and temporal bones. The occipital bone has several important features, including the foramen magnum, which is the large opening at the base of the skull that allows the spinal cord to pass through.
How to Identify the Occipital Bone
The occipital bone is located at the back of the skull, just above the neck. It is shaped like a horseshoe and has a prominent bump in the middle, called the external occipital protuberance (EOP). This bump can sometimes be felt through the skin, especially if you have short hair or no hair in that area.
Step by Step Guide to Understanding Why the Bone in the Back of Your Head Sticks Out
Step 1: Understanding Normal Skull Anatomy
The human skull is made up of several bones that are connected by sutures. These bones include the frontal bone, parietal bones, temporal bones, and occipital bone. The occipital bone is located at the back of the skull and forms the base of the skull.
Step 2: Learning About the External Occipital Protuberance (EOP)
The external occipital protuberance (EOP) is a bump on the back of the skull that is located just above the neck. This bump is a normal part of the occipital bone and can vary in size and shape from person to person. Some people may have a more prominent EOP than others.
Step 3: Understanding the Role of the EOP
The EOP serves as an attachment point for several muscles in the neck and back. These muscles include the trapezius muscle, which helps move the shoulders and neck, and the nuchal ligament, which supports the head and neck.
Step 4: Recognizing When the EOP May Be Abnormal
In some cases, the EOP may be more prominent than usual or may be accompanied by other symptoms, such as pain or tenderness in the area. This can be a sign of a condition called occipital neuralgia, which is a type of headache that affects the nerves in the back of the head.
Tips for Caring for Your Hair Around the Occipital Bone
If you have short hair or no hair in the area around the occipital bone, you may be more likely to notice the EOP. Here are some tips for caring for your hair around this area:
- Use a gentle shampoo and conditioner to avoid irritating the scalp.
- Avoid pulling your hair back tightly, as this can put pressure on the scalp and cause discomfort.
- If you use hair extensions or weaves, make sure they are not too tight or heavy, as this can cause traction alopecia, a type of hair loss that occurs when the hair is pulled too tightly.
- If you have long hair, consider wearing it in a loose braid or ponytail to avoid putting pressure on the scalp.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes the bone in the back of my head to stick out?
The bone in the back of your head that sticks out is called the occipital bone, and it's a normal part of the human skull. The external occipital protuberance (EOP) is a bump on the back of the skull that is located just above the neck. This bump is a normal part of the occipital bone and can vary in size and shape from person to person.
Is it normal to feel the bone in the back of my head?
Yes, it is normal to feel the bone in the back of your head, especially if you have short hair or no hair in that area. The external occipital protuberance (EOP) is a bump on the back of the skull that is located just above the neck. This bump is a normal part of the occipital bone and can vary in size and shape from person to person.
Can the bone in the back of my head cause headaches?
In some cases, the bone in the back of your head (occipital bone) may be associated with headaches. Occipital neuralgia is a type of headache that affects the nerves in the back of the head and can cause pain, tenderness, and sensitivity to light and sound.
Conclusion
The bone in the back of your head that sticks out is called the occipital bone, and it's a normal part of the human skull. The external occipital protuberance (EOP) is a bump on the back of the skull that is located just above the neck. This bump is a normal part of the occipital bone and can vary in size and shape from person to person. If you have any concerns about the bone in the back of your head or are experiencing any symptoms, it's important to speak with your healthcare provider.
