The digastric muscle is a suprahyoid muscle of the neck, consisting of two muscular bellies which are connected via a tendon. It serves several functions, and is innervated and supplied with blood by specific vessels. Understanding how the digastric works is key to understanding the anatomy and physiology of the neck.
The two bellies that make up the digastric muscle are attached to two key spots in the neck. The anterior belly arises from the digastric fossa of the mandible, while the posterior belly arises from the mastoid process of the temporal bone. An intermediate tendon connects the two bellies, and is attached to the hyoid bone via a fibrous sling.
The digastric muscle plays a key role in controlling movements of the mandible and the hyoid bone. It functions to depress the mandible and elevate the hyoid bone, aiding in the act of swallowing. This is of particular importance when considering the necessity of adequate swallowing for both essential nutrition and the prevention of choking.
The nervous system plays an important role in controlling the movement of muscles. The digastric muscle is no exception. The anterior belly is innervated by the inferior alveolar nerve, a branch of the mandibular nerve (which is derived from the trigeminal nerve, CN V). The posterior belly is innervated by the digastric branch of the facial nerve.
The major source of blood supply for the digastric muscle is the vertebral artery and the deep descending branch of the occipital artery. This supply of blood is integral to the proper function of the muscle, as these arteries provide the needed nutrients, oxygen, and hormones to ensure that the digastric can adequately serve its purpose.
The digastric muscle, like all muscles of the body, is susceptible to various injuries. Rupture of the tendon can occur due to heavy lifting, and is often easily identified due to swelling in the neck and dysphagia. More serious injuries can occur due to trauma to the neck, and the digastric muscle can also become inflamed, leading to tenderness or pain in the area.
As such, it is important to take proper care of the digastric muscle in order to ensure that it remains healthy. Adequate nutrition, a healthy lifestyle, and regular exercise can help to ensure that the muscle is strong and well-functioning. Regular check-ups with a qualified medical professional can also provide assurance that the muscle is in good condition.
The digastric muscle is an important suprahyoid muscle of the neck. It consists of two muscular bellies which are connected via a tendon. It attaches to two key spots in the neck, and functions to depress the mandible and elevate the hyoid bone. It is innervated by the inferior alveolar and digastric branches of the mandibular and facial nerves, respectively. The vertebral artery and the deep descending branch of the occipital artery provide blood supply to the digastric muscle. Proper care of the muscle will help to keep it functioning optimally.
