Occipital nerves: A concise encyclopedic review with clinical relevance in physiotherapy

Occipital nerves play an important role in the sensory and motor innervation of the occipital region and the upper cervical spine, and their clinical significance is also reflected in physiotherapeutic practice. This paper aims to present a concise, encyclopedic review of the occipital nerves, with particular emphasis on their relevance in physiotherapy. Occipital nerves play a key role in the sensory and motor innervation of the upper cervical region, and their complex anatomy and variability contribute significantly to the development of cervicogenic headaches and occipital neuralgia. A thorough understanding of their anatomical course, potential entrapment sites, and relationships with surrounding structures is essential for accurate diagnosis and effective therapeutic planning. • This article provides a concise anatomical overview of the occipital nerves and their variations. • It highlights the clinical relevance of occipital nerves in headaches and cervicogenic pain. • The review emphasizes the importance of occipital nerve anatomy in physiotherapeutic practice.