Suprahyoid

Suprahyoid muscles are a group of four muscles located above the hyoid bone in the human neck. The four muscles are: the digastric muscle, the stylohyoid muscle, the mylohyoid muscle, and the geniohyoid muscle. These muscles have a common function in supporting the floor of the mouth and the position of the hyoid bone, which is essential for speech and swallowing.

Anatomy

The suprahyoid muscles are located above the hyoid bone. They are connected to the skull and the hyoid bone. The muscles are divided into two groups: the anterior group, which includes the digastric and mylohyoid muscles, and the posterior group, which includes the stylohyoid and geniohyoid muscles.

Digastric muscle

The digastric muscle is a small muscle located below the jaw. It is composed of two muscle bellies connected by a central tendon. The digastric muscle plays a crucial role in opening the mouth and extending the neck.

Stylohyoid muscle

The stylohyoid muscle is a slender muscle, which runs from the base of the skull to the hyoid bone. It acts to elevate the hyoid bone and retract it posteriorly.

Mylohyoid muscle

The mylohyoid muscle forms the floor of the mouth. It acts to elevate the hyoid bone and the tongue, which is essential for swallowing and speech.

Geniohyoid muscle

The geniohyoid muscle is a narrow muscle located above the medial border of the mylohyoid muscle. It acts to pull the hyoid bone upwards and forwards.

Function

The suprahyoid muscles play a crucial role in several functions, including swallowing, speech, and mastication. They work together to elevate the hyoid bone and the larynx during swallowing and speech. They also contribute to the opening of the mouth by depressing the mandible.

Clinical significance

Dysfunction or injury to the suprahyoid muscles can lead to difficulties in swallowing and speech. Conditions such as dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) and dysarthria (difficulty articulating speech) can occur if these muscles are not functioning properly.

Suprahyoid Resources
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