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Muscles of the auricle
Last reviewed: 23.04.2024
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Muscles of the auricle are weak in man. Very rarely is the ability to move the auricle, which is combined with the simultaneous contraction of the occipitus-frontal muscle. There are anterior, upper and posterior ear muscles.
The anterior ear muscle (m.auricularis anterior) in the form of a thin fascicle begins on the temporal fascia and the tendon helmet. Going back and down, attached to the skin of the auricle.
Function: pulls the auricle forward.
The upper ear muscle (m.auricularis superior) begins with weakly expressed beams on the tendon helmet over the auricle; is attached to the upper surface of the cartilage of the auricle.
Function: pulls the auricle upward.
The posterior ear muscle (m.auricularis posterior) is developed better than the other ear muscles. It begins with two bundles on the mastoid process, is directed forward and attached to the rear convex surface of the auricle.
Function: pulls the auricle backwards.
Innervation of the ear muscles: facial nerve (VII).
Blood supply: superficial temporal artery - anterior and superior muscles; the posterior ear artery is the posterior muscle.
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