Spry Juncture, LLC
How to Evolve Gracefully
Orbicularis oris
Region
📷 Sobo 1909 263 by Dr. Johannes Sobotta, via Wikimedia Commons, in the Public domain
📷 Gray — musculus orbicularis oris by Henry Vandyke Carter, via Wikimedia Commons, in the Public domain
Origin & Insertion
Origin: Maxilla and mandible (midline)
Insertion: Skin and mucous membrane of lips
Synergistic Muscles
Buccinator
Levator anguli oris
Joints
['None']
Primary Actions
Closes lips
Protrudes lips (kissing motion)
Nerve & Spinal Segment
Facial nerve (CN VII); branch: buccal and mandibular
Cranial nerve; originates from pons
Interesting
Sometimes referred to as the “kissing muscle.” [Saladin Human Anatomy]
Reversal of Action
Hold lips while moving chin up toward mouth
Common Dysfunctions
Drooling,
slurred speech,
facial droop
How to Stretch
Purse lips and pull to the side with fingers to feel stretch in mouth corners.
Trigger Points
How to Strengthen
Press lips together tightly, hold 5 seconds, repeat 10x.
Concentric Action
Purse lips (as in kissing)
Applications:
Speech therapy and drooling control in neurologic rehab
Eccentric Action
Slowly release a pursed lip posture
Isotonic Action
Repetitive lip pursing or speech drills
Related Conditions
Bell’s palsy
Facial asymmetry
Isometric Action
Hold lips tightly closed
Exercise Ideas
Lip closure drills
Straw suction holds
Balloon inflation