What is Platysma Muscle?
The platysma muscle is a thin, broad muscle located in the anterior neck and lower face. It extends from the hyoid bone to the collarbone and chest. The platysma is a superficial muscle, meaning it is located just beneath the skin and can be easily seen and felt.
Anatomy of the Platysma Muscle
The platysma muscle is a thin, flat, leaf-shaped muscle that covers the anterior neck and lower face. It originates from the hyoid bone, which is located in the upper neck, and extends to the clavicle and chest. The platysma is a broad muscle that runs laterally across the neck and merges with the deep cervical fascia, a layer of connective tissue that surrounds the muscles of the neck.
Innervation of the Platysma Muscle
The platysma muscle is innervated by the facial nerve, also known as cranial nerve VII. The facial nerve is responsible for controlling the muscles of facial expression, including the platysma. It originates in the brainstem and divides into several branches that spread throughout the face. The platysma is innervated by branches of the facial nerve that extend to the muscle.
Action of the Platysma Muscle
The platysma muscle has several functions, including movement of the neck and jaw. It assists in lateral tilt of the head, rotation of the head to the opposite side, and depression of the jaw. In addition, the platysma is also involved in facial expression, especially during contraction of the muscle, which results in tension and stretching of the skin of the neck and chin.
Clinical Importance of the Platysma Muscle
The platysma muscle can be affected by several clinical conditions, including facial paralysis, neuromuscular disorders, and trauma. Facial paralysis can result in weakness or paralysis of the platysma, leading to changes in facial expression and neck function. Neuromuscular disorders, such as dystonia, can also affect the platysma, resulting in abnormal muscle contractions and involuntary movements.
Exercises to Strengthen the Platysma Muscle
There are specific exercises that can help strengthen the platysma muscle. One example is the “kiss the sky” exercise, in which you stretch your lips upward as if you were trying to kiss the ceiling. Another exercise is the “wide smile” exercise, in which you smile broadly, stretching the muscles in your face and neck. These exercises can be performed regularly to strengthen the platysma and improve the appearance and function of your neck and face.
Final considerations
The platysma muscle plays an important role in neck and jaw movement, and is also involved in facial expression. It is a superficial muscle that can be easily seen and felt. Understanding the anatomy and function of the platysma can be useful for healthcare professionals such as physicians, physical therapists, and estheticians. Additionally, performing specific exercises can help strengthen the platysma and improve the appearance and function of the neck and face.