Head and neck muscles (chewing, facial, and throat muscles)

Temporalis

Musculus temporalis

Origin

Temporal fossa, formed by the temporal, parietal, frontal and sphenoid bones, plus the temporal fascia

Insertion

Coronoid process and the anterior border of the ramus of the mandible

Function

Important elevator of the lower jaw (jaw closing); the posterior fibers retract the lower jaw

Innervation

Deep temporal nerves, branches of the mandibular nerve (V3, trigeminal nerve)

Movement & chain

Works together with masseter and medial pterygoid during chewing; the posterior, more horizontal fibers specifically produce retrusion of the mandible.

Palpation

Easily felt above and in front of the ear, in the temple region, when clenching the jaws together.

Clinical

Painful tension here is a common component of tension headaches and temporomandibular dysfunction.

Segmental innervation

Motor via the trigeminal nerve (V3); no spinal segment.

In clinical practice

Major elevator and retractor of the mandible; myofascial release for temporalis trigger points in tension headaches and clenching.

Region in the model

Head and neck muscles (chewing, facial, and throat muscles)