Levator palati

Levator palati is a muscle in the human anatomy that is part of the soft palate. It is primarily responsible for elevating the soft palate during swallowing and speech.

Anatomy

The levator palati originates from the temporal bone and the cartilage of the auditory tube. It extends downward and medially, inserting into the palatine aponeurosis of the soft palate. The muscle is innervated by the pharyngeal plexus, which is primarily supplied by the vagus nerve.

Function

The primary function of the levator palati is to elevate the soft palate. This action is crucial during the process of swallowing, as it prevents food and liquid from entering the nasopharynx. The muscle also plays a role in speech, as it helps to close off the nasopharynx during the production of oral sounds.

Clinical significance

Dysfunction of the levator palati can lead to a number of clinical conditions. For example, velopharyngeal insufficiency can occur if the muscle is unable to adequately close off the nasopharynx during speech, leading to a nasal quality of voice. Additionally, weakness or paralysis of the muscle can contribute to problems with swallowing, known as dysphagia.

See also

• Muscles of the head and neck
• Soft palate
• Swallowing
• Speech