The sternohyoid muscle is a flat muscle located on both sides of the neck, part of the infrahyoid muscle group. It originates from the medial edge of the clavicle, sternoclavicular ligament, and posterior side of the manubrium, and ascends to attach to the body of the hyoid bone. The sternohyoid muscle, along with other infrahyoid muscles, functions to depress the hyoid bone, which is important for activities such as speaking, chewing, and swallowing. Additionally, this muscle group contributes to the protection of the trachea, esophagus, blood vessels, and thyroid gland. The sternohyoid muscle also plays a minor role in head movements.[3]
The muscle is directed superomedially from its origin to its insertion. The two muscles are separated by a considerable interval inferiorly, but usually converge by their mid-point and remain proximal until their superior insertion.[2]
The muscle may be absent, doubled, exhibit a clavicular slip (the cleidohyoideus), or interrupted by a tendinous intersection;[2] it sometimes presents a transverse tendinous inscription just distal to its origin.[citation needed]
Actions/movements
The muscle depresses the hyoid bone when the bone is in an elevated position.[2]
Function
The sternohyoid muscle performs a number of functions:
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