The 11th nerve

The 11th cranial nerve, or the accessory nerve, is a fascinating component of our neural orchestra. Imagine it as the unsung hero, the crucial control cable specifically designed to empower two wonderfully expressive movements: shrugging your shoulders (perfect for feigning ignorance or expressing exasperation), and turning your head away from your shoulder (excellent for avoiding awkward eye contact or perfecting that dramatic exit).

- Dr MAZDA TUREL

It is the invisible conductor for two large muscles: the trapezius, which forms the broad sweep of your upper back and shoulders, and the sternocleidomastoid, the prominent muscle running from behind your ear down to your collarbone—think Katrina Kaif and Deepika Padukone. Without the diligent work of the accessory nerve, these muscles, like marionettes with a suddenly severed string, cannot perform their vital dance. They'd hang there, rather deflated.