sternohyoid muscle

The sternohyoid muscle is a long, straplike muscle located in the neck. It originates from the sternum (breastbone) and clavicle (collarbone) and runs upward to insert into the hyoid bone. The hyoid bone is a U-shaped bone situated at the base of the tongue, crucial for anchoring muscles involved in tongue movement and swallowing.1

The sternohyoid muscle, along with other muscles attached to the hyoid bone, plays a role in mastication, swallowing, and voice production. Specifically, it acts as a depressor of the hyoid bone and larynx. When these muscles contract, they help to elevate the hyoid bone and the floor of the mouth, which is an initial step in the swallowing process.12