Omohyoid muscle

Omohyoid muscle is a muscle located in the anterior triangle of the neck. It is a thin, flat muscle that is part of the infrahyoid muscles, a group of four muscles located beneath the hyoid bone. The omohyoid muscle is unique among the infrahyoid muscles in that it is divided into two bellies by an intermediate tendon.

Structure

The omohyoid muscle originates from the upper border of the scapula, near the scapular notch. From there, it extends upward and medially, crossing over the internal jugular vein and the carotid sheath. The muscle then turns sharply upward to attach to the lower border of the hyoid bone.

The omohyoid muscle is divided into two parts, or "bellies". The larger, superior belly extends from the hyoid bone to the intermediate tendon, while the smaller, inferior belly extends from the intermediate tendon to the scapula.

Function

The primary function of the omohyoid muscle is to depress the hyoid bone, pulling it downward and toward the back. This action is important in swallowing and speech.

Clinical significance

Due to its location, the omohyoid muscle can be involved in several medical conditions. For example, it can be affected by neck pain and tension headaches. In rare cases, the muscle can also be involved in congenital anomalies, such as omohyoid muscle syndrome, a condition characterized by a tight or shortened omohyoid muscle.

See also

• Infrahyoid muscles
• Hyoid bone
• Scapula
• Swallowing
• Speech

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