Corpus: Third occipital nerve

The third occipital nerve arises from the posterior branch (dorsal ramus) of the third cervical spinal nerve (C3).

The third occipital nerve branches off from the third cervical spinal nerve (C3) immediately after it passes through the intervertebral foramen. In its proximal section, it forms a connection (anastomosis) with the greater occipital nerve. It then runs parallel to this nerve in an upward (cranial) direction, slightly below it, and eventually pierces the trapezius muscle.

The third occipital nerve provides sensory innervation to the lower part of the occipital region and parts of the upper neck region.