Neck
stylohyoid
sty-lo-HY-oyd
The stylohyoid is a slender muscle from the skull's styloid process to the hyoid bone in the upper neck. It elevates and retracts the hyoid during swallowing. Important for fitness in maintaining neck posture during dynamic movements like cleans.
Open in 3D ViewerCommon Pain & Injury
Pain feels sharp under the jaw or side of neck, triggered by yawning or chewing. Common in TMJ issues. See a doctor if swallowing is impaired or pain radiates.
Anatomy & Function
Origin
Styloid process of temporal bone (skull projection near ear).
Insertion
Body and greater horn of hyoid bone (under chin bone).
Actions
- Elevates and retracts hyoid bone (lifts/pulls back for swallow)
Innervation
Facial nerve (CN VII).
Muscle Relationships
Antagonists
Synergists
Trigger Points
Trigger points near hyoid insertion refer pain to the submandibular area and tongue base.
Stretches
Common Conditions
Anatomical Parts
FAQ
What does stylohyoid do?
Elevates and pulls back the hyoid bone to aid swallowing and jaw movement.
Stylohyoid pain symptoms?
Sharp pain under jaw from chewing or yawning, linked to TMJ or Eagle syndrome.
How to stretch stylohyoid?
Use lateral neck tilts with jaw protrusion for relief.
Stylohyoid anatomy?
Runs from skull styloid to hyoid, innervated by facial nerve.
Exercises for stylohyoid
8

Chin To Chest Stretch


Isometric Neck Exercise - Front And Back


Isometric Neck Exercise - Sides


Lying Face Down Plate Neck Resistance


Lying Face Up Plate Neck Resistance


Neck-SMR


Seated Head Harness Neck Resistance


Side Neck Stretch
Also Works stylohyoid
1Related Neck Muscles
Neck Pain Guide
Common causes and relief
Activities & Sports
See which activities use stylohyoid

