Head and Neck Anatomy: Part II – Musculature
Stylohyoid

The stylohyoid is a narrow band of muscle extending diagonally from its origin on the styloid process of the temporal bone to the hyoid bone. It is innervated by a branch of cranial nerve VII (facial nerve). As the origin is superior and posterior to the insertion the stylohyoid acts to pull the hyoid bone superiorly and posteriorly. This moves the tongue in the same direction and is used in swallowing.