Spry Juncture, LLC
How to Evolve Gracefully
Sternohyoid
Region
Origin & Insertion
['Origin: Manubrium of sternum and medial end of clavicle', 'Insertion: Body of hyoid bone']
Synergistic Muscles
['Omohyoid', 'Sternothyroid']
Joints
['None']
Primary Actions
['Depresses hyoid after elevation during swallowing']
Nerve & Spinal Segment
Ansa cervicalis (C1–C3)
Cervical plexus; C1–C3
Interesting
Part of the infrahyoid or “strap” muscles. [Moore’s]
Reversal of Action
Stabilize hyoid while lifting sternum (rare cue)
Common Dysfunctions
Impaired speech or respiration coordination
How to Stretch
Neck extension with chin protrusion.
Trigger Points
How to Strengthen
Isometric neck flexion with downward tongue pressure.
Concentric Action
Depress hyoid after swallowing
Applications:
Helps coordinate breathing-swallowing sequence
Eccentric Action
Control hyoid elevation during breath-hold
Isotonic Action
Neck flexion with tongue-in-down position
Related Conditions
['Swallow dysfunction', 'Neck strain']
Isometric Action
Hold hyoid downward during swallowing drill
Exercise Ideas
['Chin nod holds', 'Isometric hyoid depressions', 'Vocal projection drills']