What are the nuchal lines?

Nuchal lines are clear curved lines on the outside of the occipital bone, which forms the rear base of the skull. This trapezoidal bone is interrupted by a single large opening, foramen magnum to allow the bottom of the brain stem or Medully Obrongat. These lines form anatomical reference points that can be useful in the skull tests. These are also points of attachment for some muscles involved in head and neck control. It creates a low ridge that can be underestimated in some people and disappears on the foramen magnum. At this point, a nuchal liga is attached to the skull. In humans, this ligament does not play a major role, which is one of the reasons why the connection point is often minimal. It creates a tomb for a structure known as Galea Aponeurotica to connect. This structure is a hard membrane that is the basis of the scalp. Below is the superior nuchal line, which forms the points of attachment for several muscles: trapezium, steeling, splenius capitis and sternocleidomastide.

There is a lower nuchal line between the superior nuchal line and the foramen magnum. This last of the nuchal lines connects to rectus capitis rear main and smaller muscles, as well as obliquus capitis better. The exact shape and size of the nuchal lines may vary between individuals. Men tend to have heavier skulls with more prominent features, especially in places where the muscles are attached. People who develop extreme strength in the muscles around the shoulders and neck, as can be seen in some athletes and yoga practices, can also have deeper nuchal lines.

This area of ​​the skull is a fits to living patients, although it may be necessary to detect part of the occipital bone in surgery. The catches may include evaluation if the bone has been involved in the cause of death. This may be necessary, for example, for patients with severe head injury. In the case of skeletal remains, a forensic scientist can evaluate the nuchal lines and other structures in the skull to learn inthe victim. Although they cannot be used for positive identification, they can provide traces that could help the team to find out who died.