Neck
posterior crico-arytenoid
pos-TEER-ee-or KRY-ko-air-ih-TEEN-oyd
The posterior crico-arytenoid is the sole abductor of the vocal folds, essential for breathing by opening the airway. Vital for singers and athletes needing vocal control. Weakness affects breathing endurance.
Open in 3D ViewerCommon Pain & Injury
Strain from shouting causes throat pain; see ENT for hoarseness.
Anatomy & Function
Origin
Posterior lamina of cricoid cartilage (back thyroid ring)
Insertion
Muscular process of arytenoid cartilage (vocal cord base)
Actions
- Abduction of vocal folds (opens airway for breathing)
Innervation
Recurrent laryngeal nerve
Muscle Relationships
Antagonists
Lateral cricoarytenoid
Synergists
None primary
Trigger Points
Rarely documented; local laryngeal pain.
Stretches
1Yawn-sigh exercise
2Neck rotation with breath
3Laryngeal release massage
Common Conditions
Vocal fold paralysisLaryngospasm
Anatomical Parts
Right posterior crico-arytenoidLeft posterior crico-arytenoid
FAQ
Posterior cricoarytenoid function?
Only muscle opening vocal cords for inhalation.
PCA muscle paralysis?
Causes airway issues; needs specialist eval.
Posterior cricoarytenoid pain?
From vocal overuse; rest voice.
Strengthen posterior cricoarytenoid?
Resonant voice exercises.
Exercises for posterior crico-arytenoid
8

Chin To Chest Stretch
beginner


Isometric Neck Exercise - Front And Back
beginner·Bodyweight


Isometric Neck Exercise - Sides
beginner·Bodyweight


Lying Face Down Plate Neck Resistance
intermediate·other


Lying Face Up Plate Neck Resistance
intermediate·other


Neck-SMR
intermediate·other


Seated Head Harness Neck Resistance
intermediate·other


Side Neck Stretch
beginner
Also Works posterior crico-arytenoid
1Related Neck Muscles
arytenoid cartilage
Paired laryngeal cartilages in throat enabling voice production via vocal cord movement. Not muscle but closest for neck; singers train supporting muscles. Vital for breathing/speaking.
Ascending part of right trapezius
The ascending part of the right trapezius is the uppermost portion of the trapezius muscle on the right side, running from the base of the skull and upper cervical spine up toward the clavicle and shoulder. It elevates the scapula (shoulder blade) and assists in neck extension and rotation, crucial for shrugging movements and maintaining upright posture during lifts. Strong ascending traps prevent neck strain in overhead presses and rows.
cervical rotator
Cervical rotators are deep neck muscles like obliquus capitis inferior and splenius cervicis that turn the head side-to-side. Located deep in the upper cervical spine, they enable rotation for looking over shoulder. Vital for neck mobility in sports and daily turns.
cricothyroid
The cricothyroid is a small intrinsic laryngeal muscle in the anterior neck, tensing vocal cords for higher pitch. Located between cricoid and thyroid cartilages, it's key for singing and speaking. Matters for vocal athletes like singers.
digastric
The digastric has anterior and posterior bellies under the jaw, opening the mouth by depressing mandible. Runs from mandible to mastoid via sling, key for chewing and yawning.
geniohyoid
Thin neck muscle under chin pulling hyoid forward/up, geniohyoid aids swallowing and tongue movement. Supports neck stability in planks.
hyoglossus
The hyoglossus is a thin tongue muscle running from the hyoid bone (under chin) up into the tongue's side. It depresses and retracts the tongue, aiding swallowing and speech. Rarely targeted in fitness, but dysfunction affects eating and breathing mechanics.
iliocostalis cervicis
Iliocostalis cervicis is the neck portion of the erector spinae, running vertically along upper back to cervical ribs. It extends and laterally bends the neck, vital for posture in overhead lifts and sports. Supports head stability in fitness.
Neck Pain Guide
Common causes and relief
Activities & Sports
See which activities use posterior crico-arytenoid

