Muscles of the head
Last reviewed: 23.04.2024
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The muscles of the head are divided into mimic and chewing muscles.
Mimic muscles differ from the muscles of other areas of the human body in origin, attachment and functions. They develop on the basis of the second visceral arch, located under the skin and not covered with fascia. Most of the facial muscles are centered around the natural openings in the face area. Muscle tufts of facial muscles have a circular and radial orientation. Circular muscles serve as sphincters (compressors), radially located - expanders. Beginning on the surface of bones or on the underlying fascia, these muscles terminate in the skin. Therefore, in case of contraction, the facial muscles are capable of causing complex skin movements, changing its relief. Expressive movements of the facial muscles (facial expressions) reflect the inner state of mind (joy, sadness, fear, etc.). The facial muscles also participate in articulate speech and the act of chewing.
Chewing muscles are derived from the mesenchyme of the first (lower jaw) visceral arch. By the method of beginning and attachment, these muscles do not differ from other skeletal muscles. They act on the temporomandibular joint and set in motion the only mobile bone of the facial skull - the lower jaw, providing mechanical grinding of the food - chewing (hence their name). Undoubtedly the participation of chewing muscles in articulate speech and other functions associated with the movements of the lower jaw.
[Mimic muscles
According to the location (topography) of the facial muscles (mimic) are divided into the muscles of the cranial vault; muscles surrounding the ocular gap; muscles surrounding the nasal aperture (nostrils); muscles surrounding the mouth opening and the muscles of the auricle.
Chewing muscles
Chewing muscles develop on the basis of the first visceral (mandibular) arch. These muscles originate on the bones of the skull and attach to the lower jaw - the only movable bone, providing a variety of its movements in humans in the temporomandibular joint.