Spry Juncture, LLC
How to Evolve Gracefully
Orbicularis oculi
Region
Origin & Insertion
Origin: Medial orbital margin and lacrimal bone
Insertion: Skin around the orbit and eyelids
Synergistic Muscles
Corrugator supercilii
Levator labii superioris
Joints
None
Primary Actions
Closes eyelids
Facilitates blinking and squinting
Nerve & Spinal Segment
Facial nerve (CN VII);
branch: temporal & zygomatic
Cranial nerve; no plexus; originates from pons
Interesting
Critical in tear drainage and eye protection. [Netter’s Atlas of Human Anatomy]
Reversal of Action
Resist external attempt to open eyelids
Common Dysfunctions
Incomplete eye closure,
dry eye,
Bell’s palsy
How to Stretch
Gently close eyes and press fingers outward on the temple to stretch lateral orbital region.
Trigger Points
How to Strengthen
Close eyes tightly and hold, repeat in sets of 10.
Concentric Action
Tightly close eyes
Applications:
Helps manage lagophthalmos or incomplete eyelid closure
Eccentric Action
Slowly open eyes from tight closure
Isotonic Action
Blinking rapidly or against resistance (like water)
Related Conditions
'Bell’s palsy',
Blepharospasm
Isometric Action
Hold eyes shut firmly without movement
Exercise Ideas
Eye squeeze holds
Resisted eyelid closure
Blink drills