Have you ever wondered if there are two sternohyoid muscles? Well, my friend, you’re not alone in this inquiry. It’s a question that’s often asked, and the answer is not as straightforward as one might think. In this article, let’s explore together what the anatomical role of the sternohyoid muscle is, and whether it comes in pairs or not.
The sternohyoid muscle is a long, thin band of muscle that runs from the sternum to the hyoid bone, which is located in the neck. It’s part of a group of muscles known as the infrahyoid muscles, which have the responsibility of controlling the movement of the hyoid bone during swallowing and breathing. However, when it comes to knowing how many sternohyoid muscles there are, it can get a bit tricky. Some anatomical references state that there are two sternohyoid muscles, while others describe it as one muscle that is bifurcated.
Understanding the anatomy of the sternohyoid muscle is essential for both medical professionals and anyone interested in neuroscience, anatomy, or physiology. Whether you’re studying to become a medical practitioner or just curious about the workings of your body, knowing whether there are two sternohyoid muscles or not is essential to understanding the complex system of muscles and bones that make up the human body. So, let’s dive deeper into this curious mystery of the sternohyoid muscle, and discover together what the verdict is on its number.
Anatomy of the Sternohyoid Muscle
The sternohyoid muscle is one of the four paired infrahyoid muscles located in the neck. It is named based on its attachment to the sternum and hyoid bone. The muscle is elongated and strap-like, lying superficially to the thyroid gland and the trachea. It functions in depressing the hyoid bone after it has been elevated during swallowing and speech. There are two sternohyoid muscles: right and left, with slight differences in their origins.
- The right sternohyoid muscle arises from the posterior border of the manubrium sterni, the clavicle’s upper border, and the first costal cartilage’s inferomedial margin.
- The left sternohyoid muscle arises from the upper border and posterior surface of the sternum’s manubrium.
Both muscles travel superiorly and slightly laterally before converging at the midline’s undersurface to insert into the hyoid bone’s lower border. The median plane’s attachments on each side merge subtly, creating a continuous muscular ribbon from the manubrium to the hyoid bone, on which the muscles’ contralateral fibers blend.
During swallowing, the larynx and hyoid bone are raised, and the food bolus is pushed backward towards the pharynx. The sternohyoid muscles are involved in the next step of the swallowing process, where the larynx and hyoid bone are lowered, moving the food down the esophagus.
The sternohyoid muscle can be prone to injuries and strains, which may cause pain or discomfort when swallowing, speaking or turning the head. In some cases, surgical interventions may be necessary to repair damaged muscles or relieve pressure from compressed nerves in the neck.
Muscles of the Neck
The neck is a complex area of the body that contains a variety of muscles responsible for a range of movements and functions, including maintaining posture, breathing, and swallowing. One of these muscles is the sternohyoid muscle, which is actually composed of two distinct muscles.
Are there Two Sternohyoid Muscles?
- Yes, there are two sternohyoid muscles in the neck.
- These muscles are located on either side of the midline and run from the sternum to the hyoid bone in the neck.
- The sternohyoid muscles are flattened and strap-like in shape, and are responsible for depressing the hyoid bone during swallowing and speaking.
It is important to note that while there are two sternohyoid muscles, there are also a number of other muscles in the neck that are involved in these same functions. These include the omohyoid muscle, which runs from the scapula to the hyoid bone and depresses the hyoid bone; the thyrohyoid muscle, which runs from the thyroid cartilage to the hyoid bone and elevates the larynx during swallowing; and the pharyngeal constrictor muscles, which are responsible for peristaltic movement of food through the pharynx during swallowing.
Overall, the muscles of the neck are critical for a range of essential functions, and understanding their anatomy and function is an important part of maintaining overall health and well-being.
Sources:
| Source | Description |
|---|---|
| Gray’s Anatomy | A classic text on human anatomy |
| Netter’s Anatomy | A modern and highly visual guide to human anatomy |
| Medical News Today | Source for up-to-date information on health and medicine |
It is important to consult with a qualified healthcare professional before beginning any exercise or dietary program.
Sternocleidomastoid Muscle
The sternocleidomastoid muscle (SCM) is a large, rope-like muscle that runs from the sternum and clavicle (collarbone) up to the base of the skull behind the ear. It is responsible for several important movements of the head and neck, such as turning the head to the opposite side and bending the head forward. The muscle is named for its attachments to the sternum (sterno), clavicle (cleido), and mastoid process of the skull (mastoid).
Are there Two Sternohyoid Muscles?
The sternohyoid muscle is a thin, strap-like muscle that runs from the sternum up to the hyoid bone in the neck. Some confusion may arise about whether there are one or two sternohyoid muscles. The answer is that there are two distinct sternohyoid muscles, one on each side of the midline of the neck.
- The right sternohyoid muscle attaches to the right side of the sternum and extends up to the right side of the hyoid bone.
- The left sternohyoid muscle attaches to the left side of the sternum and extends up to the left side of the hyoid bone.
The two sternohyoid muscles are separated by a thin midline dividing the two sides of the neck. This midline is called the anterior midline raphe.
Functions of the Sternocleidomastoid Muscle
The sternocleidomastoid muscle has several important functions in the movement of the head and neck. These include:
- Rotating the head: When the SCM muscle contracts on one side, it turns the head to the opposite side. This movement is important for looking over your shoulder or turning to see something on your left or right side.
- Bending the head forward: When both SCM muscles contract together, they bend the head forward. This movement is important for looking down at something on the ground or when you are reading.
- Lateral flexion of the neck: When the SCM muscle contracts on one side, it also tilts the head to that same side. This movement is important for looking up at the sky or over your shoulder.
Conclusion
The sternocleidomastoid muscle and the two sternohyoid muscles are essential for the movement and stability of the head and neck. Understanding the anatomy and function of these muscles can help you stay healthy and avoid injury in this critical region of the body.
| Attachment points | Functions |
|---|---|
| Sternum, clavicle, and mastoid process | Rotation of head to opposite side, lateral flexion of neck, bending head forward |
By taking care of these muscles and remaining mindful of their proper movements, you can keep your neck flexible and pain-free for years to come.
Thyroid Gland and Adjacent Muscles
The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck, just below the larynx or voice box. It is part of the endocrine system and produces hormones that regulate metabolism. The gland is surrounded by several muscles, including the sternohyoid muscle.
The sternohyoid muscle is a long, thin muscle located in the neck. It runs from the sternum or breastbone to the hyoid bone, which is located in the upper neck. One of the interesting things about the sternohyoid muscle is that some people have two of them instead of one.
- One of the possible reasons for the duplication is that the muscle has a tendency to split into two parts during embryonic development.
- The double muscle is often referred to as the “omohyoid accessory sternohyoid” muscle, as it is often found alongside the omohyoid muscle.
- The double muscle is not usually a cause for concern, although it can be mistaken for a tumor or other growth in some cases.
The sternohyoid muscle plays an important role in swallowing and speaking. When a person swallows, the muscle contracts and moves the hyoid bone up and forward, helping to push food down the esophagus. When a person speaks, the muscle stabilizes the larynx and helps to control the pitch and tone of the voice.
Other muscles that are adjacent to the thyroid gland include the sternothyroid muscle, which runs from the sternum to the thyroid cartilage, and the thyrohyoid muscle, which runs from the thyroid cartilage to the hyoid bone.
| MUSCLE | ORIGIN | INSERTION | ACTION |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sternohyoid | Sternum and clavicle | Hyoid bone | Depresses hyoid bone |
| Sternothyroid | Sternum and clavicle | Thyroid cartilage | Depresses thyroid cartilage |
| Thyrohyoid | Thyroid cartilage | Hyoid bone | Elevates hyoid bone |
Understanding the anatomy and function of the muscles and structures surrounding the thyroid gland is important for diagnosing and treating various conditions, including thyroid disorders and tumors.
Functions of the Sternohyoid Muscle
The sternohyoid muscle is located in the anterior neck region and is a long, thin muscle that extends from the sternum to the hyoid bone. The muscle is unique in that it is paired, with a sternohyoid muscle on both the left and right sides of the neck. In this article, we will explore the different functions of the sternohyoid muscle, including:
- Swallowing and Speech
- Maintaining Head and Neck Posture
- Aiding in Breathing
- Assisting in Vocalizations
- Facilitating Laryngeal Elevation
Swallowing and Speech
The sternohyoid muscle plays a significant role in swallowing and speech production. During swallowing, the muscle contracts to depress the hyoid bone and elevate the larynx. This movement forms a barrier that prevents food and liquid from entering the windpipe. The sternohyoid muscle is also essential for correct speech production, helping to control the position of the larynx and aiding the muscles responsible for sound production.
Maintaining Head and Neck Posture
The sternohyoid muscle is responsible for maintaining proper head and neck posture. The muscle plays a critical role in keeping the head from falling forward by stabilizing the hyoid bone, allowing for proper alignment of the head and neck. This function is especially important for people who sit for extended periods, such as office workers or students studying for long periods.
Aiding in Breathing
The sternohyoid muscle aids in respiration by stabilizing the hyoid bone and laryngeal cartilages during inspiration and expiration. The muscle helps control the position and movement of the larynx, preventing it from collapsing and obstructing the airway.
Assisting in Vocalizations
The sternohyoid muscle is also involved in vocalizations, helping to control the position of the larynx and aiding the muscles responsible for sound production. This action allows for a wider range of vocalization and better control of pitch and tone.
Facilitating Laryngeal Elevation
| Functions of Sternohyoid Muscle: | How the Muscle Facilitates |
|---|---|
| Laryngeal Elevation: | The sternohyoid muscle contracts to help elevate the larynx, which allows for better airflow through the pharynx during swallowing and vocalization. |
The sternohyoid muscle plays an important role in the elevation of the larynx during swallowing and vocalization. The muscle contracts to help lift the hyoid bone, which, in turn, elevates the larynx. This movement is essential for proper swallowing and vocalization, as it facilitates better airflow through the pharynx.
As we have seen, the sternohyoid muscle is an essential muscle in the neck, serving a wide range of functions. Understanding the role of this muscle can help in identifying any related dysfunctions, leading to more effective treatment and better outcomes.
Common Issues with the Sternohyoid Muscle
The sternohyoid muscle is a thin, strap-like muscle located in the neck. It runs from the sternum to the hyoid bone at the base of the tongue. While there is typically only one sternohyoid muscle in the human body, there have been cases where there are two. Despite this variation, the common issues with the sternohyoid muscle remain the same.
- Pain and stiffness: Overuse or strain of the sternohyoid muscle can lead to pain and stiffness in the neck and throat area. This can make it difficult to speak, swallow, or turn the head.
- Tension headaches: The sternohyoid muscle is connected to the skull and jaw, and tension in this muscle can cause headaches and migraines.
- TMJ disorder: The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects the jawbone to the skull, and the sternohyoid muscle is connected to this joint. Overuse or strain of the muscle can contribute to TMJ disorder, causing pain and difficulty opening and closing the mouth.
In addition to these common issues, the sternohyoid muscle can also be affected by underlying medical conditions such as thyroid problems and lymph node inflammation. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional if you are experiencing persistent pain or discomfort in the neck and throat area.
To target the sternohyoid muscle and alleviate issues, stretching and massage can be done. Focus should also be placed on proper posture and ergonomics, as slouching and poor alignment can contribute to overuse and strain of the muscle.
| Exercise | Description |
|---|---|
| Chin Tucks | Tuck your chin in towards your chest, keeping your neck straight. Hold for 5-10 seconds and release. Repeat several times. |
| Neck Rotation | Slowly turn your head to the left and hold for 5-10 seconds. Return to center and repeat on the right side. |
| Neck Tilts | Tilt your head to the left, bringing your ear towards your shoulder. Hold for 5-10 seconds, then repeat on the right side. |
By addressing common issues with the sternohyoid muscle through exercise and proper posture, individuals can alleviate pain and discomfort in the neck and throat area.
Strengthening Exercises for the Neck Muscles
The neck muscles are responsible for maintaining proper posture and head movement. Strengthening these muscles can help prevent or alleviate neck pain and stiffness. Here are some effective exercises:
- Neck Retraction: While sitting up straight, keep your chin parallel to the floor and draw your head straight back. Hold for a few seconds and release. Repeat 10 times.
- Side-to-Side Neck Rotation: Slowly turn your head to the right, hold for a few seconds, then turn it to the left and hold. Repeat 10 times.
- Head Flexion: While sitting up straight, bring your chin towards your chest until you feel a stretch in the back of your neck. Hold for a few seconds and release. Repeat 10 times.
It’s important to maintain good form during these exercises to avoid injury. Keep your movements slow and controlled, and stop immediately if you experience pain.
In addition to these exercises, you may also benefit from stretching and massage techniques to improve flexibility and reduce tension in the neck muscles.
Tips for Neck Muscle Health
Strong neck muscles can help prevent and alleviate pain, but there are also other lifestyle habits you can adopt to promote neck muscle health:
- Take frequent breaks if you work at a computer or desk for long periods of time.
- Avoid craning your neck or hunching over your phone or tablet.
- Stretch and move your neck regularly throughout the day to release tension.
- Consider seeing a physical therapist or chiropractor for personalized exercises and treatments.
Common Neck Muscle Injuries
Unfortunately, neck muscles can be prone to injury, especially if you engage in activities that strain the neck. Here are some common neck muscle injuries:
| Injury | Symptoms | Treatment |
|---|---|---|
| Strain/Sprain | Pain, stiffness, limited range of motion | RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation), pain relievers, physical therapy |
| Herniated Disc | Pain, weakness, numbness, tingling | Rest, pain relievers, physical therapy, surgery in severe cases |
| Whiplash | Pain, stiffness, headache, dizziness | RICE, pain relievers, physical therapy, chiropractic adjustments |
If you experience any neck pain or discomfort, it’s important to seek medical attention to prevent further injury or complications.
Are There Two Sternohyoid Muscles?
1. What is the sternohyoid muscle?
The sternohyoid muscle is a thin, narrow muscle located in the neck that connects the sternum and the hyoid bone.
2. How many sternohyoid muscles are there?
There are typically two sternohyoid muscles, one on each side of the neck.
3. What is the function of the sternohyoid muscle?
The primary function of the sternohyoid muscle is to aid in swallowing. It helps control the position of the hyoid bone during the swallowing process.
4. Can the sternohyoid muscle be injured?
Yes, the sternohyoid muscle can be injured due to trauma, overuse, or strain. Symptoms may include pain, swelling, and difficulty swallowing.
5. How is an injured sternohyoid muscle treated?
Treatment for an injured sternohyoid muscle may include rest, ice, compression, and elevation. Severe injuries may require physical therapy or surgery.
6. Can the sternohyoid muscle be strengthened through exercise?
Yes, targeted exercises like neck extensions and chin tucks can help strengthen the sternohyoid muscle and improve swallowing function.
Closing Thoughts
Thank you for reading this overview of the sternohyoid muscle! If you have any further questions or concerns, please consult with your healthcare provider. Remember to take good care of your body and be mindful of any changes or symptoms you may experience. Visit us again for more health-related content and tips!