Temporalis

Musculus temporalis

MuscularSuperficial musclesHeadLeft and right

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What it is

Fan-shaped muscle filling the temporal fossa on the side of the skull. Its fibres converge deep to the zygomatic arch onto a strong tendon inserting on the coronoid process and anterior border of the mandibular ramus.

Function

Elevates the mandible (closes the jaw); its horizontal posterior fibres retract the jaw.

Size

Fan about 10 cm across, up to 1.5 cm thick near the arch.

Clinical note

Tension-type headache is often felt over it; it can be felt hardening at the temple when the teeth are clenched.