The posterior auricular muscle is a small muscle located in the head and neck region. It is part of the facial nerve (cranial nerve VII) system, and is responsible for moving the ear and scalp. The posterior auricular muscle is one of the muscles of facial expression, and is located in the posterior region of the ear, near the base of the skull.
Location
The posterior auricular muscle is located in the posterior region of the ear, near the base of the skull. It is part of the facial nerve (cranial nerve VII) system, and is one of the muscles of facial expression. The posterior auricular muscle is located near the superior and inferior auricular muscles, which are also responsible for moving the ear and scalp.
Structure
The posterior auricular muscle is a small, triangular-shaped muscle that arises from the posterior border of the parietal bone and the superior nuchal line of the occipital bone. It inserts into the skin and superficial fascia of the ear and the scalp. The posterior auricular muscle is innervated by the facial nerve (cranial nerve VII).
Function
The main function of the posterior auricular muscle is to move the ear and the scalp. It can help to lift the ear and the scalp, or it can help to pull the ear and the scalp backwards. The posterior auricular muscle also plays a role in facial expression, as it can help to create wrinkles in the scalp and forehead region when it contracts.
In addition to its role in facial expression, the posterior auricular muscle also plays a role in hearing. When the ear is turned towards a sound source, the posterior auricular muscle contracts and helps to rotate the ear towards the sound. This allows us to better hear and locate the source of a sound.
Clinical Significance
The posterior auricular muscle may be clinically significant in a few different ways. One potential issue is that the posterior auricular muscle may be involved in the development of facial wrinkles and lines, particularly in the scalp and forehead region. This may be of concern to some individuals who are interested in maintaining a youthful appearance.
Additionally, the posterior auricular muscle may be affected by certain medical conditions, such as Bell’s palsy, which is a type of facial paralysis that can result from damage to the facial nerve. In such cases, the posterior auricular muscle may be weakened or paralyzed, leading to problems with facial expression and ear movement.
In some cases, the posterior auricular muscle may also be involved in the development of muscle spasms or twitching in the ear and scalp region. This may be caused by a variety of factors, including stress, fatigue, or certain medical conditions.
In rare cases, the posterior auricular muscle may also be involved in the development of muscle hypertrophy, or an abnormal increase in muscle size. This condition is typically caused by an underlying medical condition, such as an endocrine disorder, and may require medical treatment.
