Superior auricular muscle

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Superior auricular muscle

The superior auricular muscle (labelled as "auricularis superior") shown in relation to the other muscles of the head.
Latin	Musculus auricularis superior
Nerve	Facial nerve

The superior auricular muscle (musculus auricularis superior) is one of the three extrinsic auricular muscles that are responsible for the movement of the auricle of the ear. The other two muscles in this group are the anterior auricular muscle and the posterior auricular muscle.

Anatomy

The superior auricular muscle originates from the galea aponeurotica, a tough layer of dense fibrous tissue which covers the upper part of the cranium. It inserts into the upper part of the auricle.

Blood Supply

The muscle receives its blood supply from the posterior auricular artery, a branch of the external carotid artery.

Innervation

The superior auricular muscle is innervated by the facial nerve, specifically by the temporal branch of the facial nerve.

Function

The primary function of the superior auricular muscle is to elevate the auricle. This action is more pronounced in some animals, such as horses and dogs, which can move their ears to better capture sounds. In humans, this muscle is often vestigial and its function is limited.

Clinical Significance

While the superior auricular muscle has limited function in humans, it can be involved in certain medical conditions. For example, it may be affected in cases of facial nerve paralysis, which can impact the movement of the auricle.

See Also

• Auricle (anatomy)
• Facial nerve
• Extrinsic auricular muscles
• Anterior auricular muscle
• Posterior auricular muscle