Anatomy and Physiology of the Tongue

The tongue is a muscular organ crucial for speech, digestion, and taste perception. It comprises intrinsic and extrinsic muscles that allow for a wide range of movements.

Intrinsic Muscles and Their Actions

Intrinsic muscles originate and insert within the tongue, enabling fine movements and shape alterations.

• Superior Longitudinal: Elevates and retracts the tongue tip.
• Inferior Longitudinal: Lowers and retracts the tongue tip.
• Transverse: Narrows the tongue.
• Vertical: Flattens the tongue.

Extrinsic Muscles and Their Actions

Extrinsic muscles originate outside the tongue and insert into it, allowing broader movements.

• Genioglossus: Protrudes the tongue and depresses its center.
• Hyoglossus: Depresses the tongue and retracts its sides.
• Styloglossus: Elevates and retracts the tongue.
• Palatoglossus: Elevates the tongue and closes the oropharyngeal isthmus.

Functional Importance

The tongue plays a critical role in speech articulation, food manipulation, and swallowing. Its complex musculature allows precise movements necessary for these functions.