Head, Neck, and Face muscles

STYLOGLOSSUS

Tongue is made up of a group of muscles. There are two major types of tongue muscles: intrinsic muscles and extrinsic muscles. The 4 intrinsic muscles of the tongue are those situated inside the tongue. The 4 extrinsic muscles of the tongue are those that attach to the outside of the tongue from the jaw. Styloglossus muscle is an extrinsic muscle of the tongue.

Published December 22, 2021

Origin

Styloid process, stylomandibular ligament.

Insertion

Blends with the inferior longitudinal muscle and the hyoglossus muscle.

Blood supply

Ascending pharyngeal artery, ascending palatine artery, tonsillar arteries.

Nerve supply

Hypoglossal nerve.

Action

It lifts the tongue up and pulls it backward.

Disease/Injury

Neurological damage or diseases of the hypoglossal nerve such as pseudobulbar palsy can cause loss of movement of the tongue. Lack of use can also weaken the tongue and lose the ability to form words and guide food properly.

Muscle Exercises

Interesting Facts