Stylohyoid - Podcast Version 0:00 / 0:00 1x 0.25x 0.5x 0.75x 1x 1.25x 1.5x 1.75x 2x The stylohyoid is a suprahyoid muscle of the neck. It consists of a thin muscular strip, which is located superior to the posterior belly of the digastric muscle. Attachments: Arises from the styloid process of the temporal bone and attaches to the lateral aspect of the hyoid bone. Actions: Initiates a swallowing action by pulling the hyoid bone in a posterior and superior direction. Innervation: Stylohyoid branch of the facial nerve (CN VII) (arises proximal to the parotid gland). Blood Supply: Branches of the facial, occipital and posterior auricular arteries By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2026) Fig 1Lateral view of the neck with three of the suprahyoid muscles highlighted (digastric, mylohyoid and stylohyoid) By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2026) Fig 2Anterior view of the neck with the suprahyoid muscles highlighted. 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 stylohyoid muscle? The stylohyoid muscle initiates swallowing by elevating and retracting the hyoid bone. This action is essential for the proper movement of food during the swallowing process. Where does the stylohyoid muscle attach? The stylohyoid muscle originates from the styloid process of the temporal bone and connects to the lateral side of the hyoid bone. This positioning allows it to effectively assist in the movement of the hyoid during swallowing. What nerve innervates the stylohyoid muscle? The stylohyoid muscle is innervated by the stylohyoid branch of the facial nerve (CN VII). This nerve emerges near the parotid gland, providing the necessary motor function for the muscle. What is the blood supply to the stylohyoid muscle? The blood supply to the stylohyoid muscle comes from branches of the facial, occipital, and posterior auricular arteries. These vessels ensure the muscle receives adequate oxygen and nutrients for its function. How is the stylohyoid muscle positioned in relation to other neck muscles? The stylohyoid muscle is located superior to the posterior belly of the digastric muscle in the neck. Its strategic positioning allows it to work in conjunction with other suprahyoid muscles during swallowing. Rate This Article