Neurology & Pain Management Coding Alert

Learn the occipital nerve origins: The three sets of occipital nerves are the greater occipital nerve (GON), lesser occipital nerve (LON), and the third occipital nerve (TON). The GON and LON are derived from the second cervical spinal nerve (C2). The GON is derived from the dorsal ramus of C2 and LON from the ventral ramus of C2. Note that the origin of the TON is the dorsal ramus of the third cervical spinal nerve (C3).

Review structures supplied by the occipital nerves: Each of the occipital nerves has a specific area of distribution in the scalp. The GON supplies the back of the scalp to as far as the top of the scalp. Besides sensory function for the skin of the scalp, the GON also innervates the posterior neck muscles and has motor functions. The major area of distribution of the LON is the skin behind the ear. The TON, like the GON, is a mixed nerve with both sensory and motor functions. It innervates some neck muscles and carries the sensation from the C2-C3 facet joint.