Wed, 06 May 2026 13:39:08 +0000

This Coach Mistook the External Occipital Protuberance—Now You’ll Never Look the Same! Ever had a moment where a simple mix-up changed how you see yourself? For one athletic coach, a misdiagnosis involving the external occipital protuberance (EOP)—the bony bump located at the base of the skull—led to a transformative visual and philosophical shift. Today, we dive into this intriguing story and uncover why understanding subtle anatomical details matters—for athletes, healthcare professionals, and anyone curious about their body’s design. ### What Is the External Occipital Protuberance (EOP)? The external occipital protuberance is a prominent ridge found at the posterior part of the skull, just above the spine and in line with the occipital bone. Often associated with the attachment points for the nuchal ligaments and neck muscles, the EOP plays a key role in head stability, posture, and even how we balance visual orientation. While not the most visible landmark, its shape and prominence can influence cranial alignment and head position.