Lateral Cricoarytenoid - Podcast Version 0:00 / 0:00 1x 0.25x 0.5x 0.75x 1x 1.25x 1.5x 1.75x 2x The lateral cricoarytenoid is an intrinsic muscle of the larynx. It narrows the space between the vocal folds, which ats to modulate the tone and volume of speech. Attachments: Originates from the arch of the cricoid cartilage and attaches to the muscular process of the arytenoid cartilage. Actions: Adduction of the vocal folds. Innervation: Inferior laryngeal nerve (branch of recurrent laryngeal). Blood Supply: Laryngeal banches of the superior and inferior thyroid arteries. By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2026) Fig 1Superior view of the intrinsic muscles of the larynx. Pro Feature - 3D Model You've Discovered a Pro Feature Access our 3D Model Library Explore, cut, dissect, annotate and manipulate our 3D models to visualise anatomy in a dynamic, interactive way. Learn More Frequent questions What is the function of the lateral cricoarytenoid muscle? The lateral cricoarytenoid muscle primarily functions to adduct the vocal folds, narrowing the space between them. This action is crucial for modulating the tone and volume of speech. Where does the lateral cricoarytenoid muscle originate and attach? The muscle originates from the arch of the cricoid cartilage and attaches to the muscular process of the arytenoid cartilage. This specific attachment allows it to effectively control vocal fold movement. What nerve innervates the lateral cricoarytenoid muscle? The lateral cricoarytenoid muscle is innervated by the inferior laryngeal nerve, which is a branch of the recurrent laryngeal nerve. This innervation is essential for muscle function during phonation. What is the blood supply for the lateral cricoarytenoid muscle? The blood supply to the lateral cricoarytenoid muscle comes from the laryngeal branches of both the superior and inferior thyroid arteries. This vascularisation supports its metabolic needs during vocalisation. How does the lateral cricoarytenoid muscle contribute to speech? By adducting the vocal folds, the lateral cricoarytenoid muscle plays a vital role in regulating speech tone and volume. Its precise control is essential for effective communication. Rate This Article