Muscle Pterygoid Lateralis

The pterygoid lateralis muscle (m. pterygoideus lateralis, pna, jna) is a masticatory muscle located in the masticatory fossa of the skull. It begins with two heads - upper and lower - on the lateral surface of the pterygoid process of the sphenoid bone. Then the muscle fibers are directed downward and laterally, attaching to the neck of the condylar process of the mandible.

The main function of the pterygoid lateralis muscle is to open the mouth by moving the lower jaw forward and to the side. In addition, it is involved in lateral movements of the mandible, such as chewing food. The muscle is innervated by branches of the mandibular nerve.

The pterygoid lateralis muscle (lat. Musculus pterygoideus lateralis) is a paired muscle that is located on the lateral surface of the skull. It is involved in chewing and swallowing, and also plays an important role in the formation of sound during speech.

The pterygoid lateralis muscle originates from the lateral surface of the temporal bone and passes through the pterygoid canal, where it connects with other muscles. It then continues down and forward where it attaches to the pterygoid bone.

The main function of the pterygoid lateralis muscle is to move the lower jaw forward and upward. It is also involved in the formation of sound during swallowing and speech. In addition, this muscle helps maintain the correct position of the tongue during speech.

However, some people may experience dysfunction of the lateralis pterygoid muscle, which can lead to various health problems such as jaw pain, difficulty chewing and swallowing, and speech problems.