Head, Neck, and Face muscles

TRANSVERSE LINGUAE

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. Transverse linguae muscle is an intrinsic muscle of the tongue.

Published December 22, 2021

Origin

Median lingual septum.

Insertion

Submucosa of the tongue.

Blood supply

Lingual artery, tonsillar artery.

Nerve supply

Hypoglossal nerve.

Action

The intrinsic muscles alter the shape of the tongue in order to carry out functions like swallowing, talking, and whistling. The transverse linguae helps to lengthen and narrow the tongue.

Disease/Injury

Neurological damage or diseases of 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