Muscles of the head and neck

Muscles of the Head and Neck are a group of muscles that have a variety of functions including facial expression, mastication (chewing), and movement of the head and neck. These muscles are divided into two broad groups: the facial muscles and the neck muscles.

Facial Muscles

The facial muscles are a group of about 20 flat skeletal muscles lying under the facial skin. These muscles originate from the bones of the skull and insert into the skin, allowing us to make a wide variety of facial expressions. Some of the key facial muscles include:

• Orbicularis oculi: This muscle surrounds the eye and allows for blinking and squinting.
• Orbicularis oris: This muscle surrounds the mouth and allows for the lips to close and pucker.
• Zygomaticus major: This muscle pulls the corners of the mouth upward, allowing for smiling.

Neck Muscles

The neck muscles, also known as the cervical muscles, support the head and allow for its movement. Some of the key neck muscles include:

• Sternocleidomastoid: This muscle runs down the side of the neck and allows for rotation and flexion of the head.
• Trapezius: This large muscle extends down the back of the neck and upper spine, allowing for movement of the head and shoulder blades.

Function

The muscles of the head and neck play a crucial role in a number of essential functions, including facial expression, chewing and swallowing, speech, and head movement. They also play a role in maintaining posture and stability of the head.

Clinical Significance

Dysfunction or damage to the muscles of the head and neck can lead to a variety of conditions, such as Bell's palsy, which affects facial muscle control, or torticollis, which affects the neck muscles.

See Also

• Muscular system
• Anatomy of the human body