The omohyoid muscle is one of the thin muscles in the front of your neck that plays an important role in moving the hyoid bone (a small U‑shaped bone at the base of your tongue). An injury to the omohyoid muscle can cause pain, restricted movement, and difficulty performing everyday activities like swallowing.
Anatomy of the Omohyoid Muscle
Understanding the anatomy of the omohyoid muscle is key to recognizing how injuries occur and what functions might be affected. Below are the main anatomical details:
Structure
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Description:
The omohyoid is a thin, strap‑like muscle that is part of the infrahyoid group (the muscles below the hyoid bone). It has two bellies (the inferior and superior bellies) connected by an intermediate tendon. Its thin, flat shape makes it vulnerable to injury when the neck is subjected to sudden force or strain.
Location
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Where It’s Found:
The omohyoid muscle is located on the front and side of the neck. It starts near the shoulder region and extends upward toward the hyoid bone. Being in the deep layers of the neck, it helps connect the shoulder area to the hyoid bone.
Origin and Insertion
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Origin:
The muscle’s inferior belly originates near the upper border of the scapula (shoulder blade). -
Insertion:
It runs upward and attaches to the hyoid bone via its superior belly. This connection makes the omohyoid important in movements related to swallowing and stabilizing the neck.
Blood Supply
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Key Vessels:
The omohyoid muscle receives blood from branches of nearby arteries. The primary sources often include branches from the superior thyroid artery and, in some cases, from nearby vessels like the occipital artery. Adequate blood flow is important for healing after an injury.
Nerve Supply
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Innervation:
The main nerve supply to the omohyoid comes from the ansa cervicalis, a loop of nerves in the neck. This nerve bundle helps control the muscle’s movement and function.
Essential Functions
Here are six basic functions of the omohyoid muscle explained simply:
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Depressing the Hyoid Bone:
The muscle helps pull the hyoid bone downward, which is important during swallowing. -
Stabilizing the Hyoid:
It keeps the hyoid bone in place so that the swallowing and speech processes work correctly. -
Facilitating Swallowing:
By moving the hyoid bone, the muscle plays a role in the complex process of swallowing food and liquids. -
Assisting in Respiration:
It helps maintain the proper position of the neck structures during breathing. -
Aiding Neck Movements:
Though not a primary mover, it contributes to the coordinated movement of the neck. -
Supporting Neck Posture:
The omohyoid provides subtle support to maintain good neck alignment, which is important for overall posture.
Types of Omohyoid Muscle Injuries
Injuries to the omohyoid muscle can vary in severity and type. Here are the most common types:
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Acute Muscle Strain:
A sudden overstretching or tearing of the muscle fibers, usually due to a rapid movement or trauma. -
Partial Tear:
Only some of the muscle fibers are torn, leading to localized pain and weakness. -
Complete Tear/Rupture:
A full break in the muscle fibers, which is rare but can cause severe pain and functional loss. -
Contusion:
A bruise to the muscle following a direct blow or impact, which results in pain and swelling. -
Overuse Injury:
Repetitive motion can cause wear and tear, leading to chronic pain or a gradual injury over time. -
Tendinopathy:
Damage or inflammation where the muscle fibers meet the tendon, often due to repetitive strain. -
Myofascial Pain Syndrome:
The formation of tight, painful trigger points within the muscle that refer pain to other parts of the neck. -
Post-Surgical Injury:
Injury that occurs as a complication during neck surgeries when the muscle is accidentally affected. -
Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI):
Long-term repetitive activity or awkward posture causing muscle fatigue and potential injury. -
Direct Impact Injury:
Injury caused by a strong external force or trauma to the neck area that directly affects the muscle.
Causes of Omohyoid Muscle Injury
Understanding what can lead to an injury is important for both treatment and prevention. Here are 20 potential causes:
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Overuse from Repetitive Movements:
Constant neck movements or repetitive motions can strain the muscle. -
Sudden Jerking Motions:
Quick or unexpected movements in the neck can result in a strain. -
Direct Trauma:
A direct hit or blow to the neck can cause a contusion or tear. -
Sports Injuries:
Contact sports and activities involving high impact can injure the omohyoid. -
Car Accidents:
Whiplash or impact during a collision can damage the delicate muscle fibers. -
Heavy Lifting:
Incorrect lifting techniques may place excessive strain on the neck muscles. -
Occupational Hazards:
Jobs that require awkward positions or repetitive neck movements increase the risk. -
Poor Posture:
Slouched or improper positioning can lead to chronic muscle strain. -
Excessive Coughing or Sneezing:
Violent coughing fits may inadvertently strain the neck muscles. -
Overexertion During Exercise:
Intense or prolonged physical activity without proper warm-up can cause injury. -
Sports-Specific Training Errors:
Improper training techniques in sports like wrestling or martial arts can lead to injury. -
Repetitive Strain from Computer Work:
Extended periods of looking at screens with poor posture may contribute to injury over time. -
Falls:
Losing balance and falling can result in neck trauma. -
Whiplash Injuries:
Rapid forward and backward movement of the neck in accidents can cause muscle strain. -
Muscle Fatigue:
Overworking the neck muscle without adequate rest can lead to injury. -
Improper Ergonomics:
Not having an ergonomically arranged workspace can put undue stress on the neck. -
Direct Impact Sports (e.g., rugby, hockey):
Contact and collisions in these sports can directly injure the omohyoid. -
Chronic Stress:
Ongoing stress can lead to muscle tension and exacerbate small injuries. -
Postoperative Complications:
Injury to the muscle during nearby surgical procedures. -
Degenerative Changes:
Age-related changes can weaken the muscle, making it more susceptible to injury.
Symptoms of Omohyoid Muscle Injury
Knowing the symptoms can help in early detection and management. Here are 20 common symptoms:
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Neck Pain:
Persistent or sharp pain in the front or side of the neck. -
Stiffness:
Difficulty or discomfort when moving the neck. -
Swelling:
Noticeable puffiness or enlargement in the neck area. -
Bruising:
Discoloration due to bleeding under the skin from a trauma. -
Limited Range of Motion:
Reduced ability to turn or extend your neck fully. -
Muscle Spasm:
Involuntary contractions or cramping in the neck. -
Difficulty Swallowing:
Problems with swallowing may occur when the muscle is inflamed. -
Radiating Pain:
Pain that may spread from the neck to the shoulder or head. -
Tenderness on Touch:
Increased pain when you press on the injured muscle. -
Fatigue:
General feeling of tiredness in the neck area, especially after activity. -
Sharp Pains:
Sudden, intense pain during movement. -
Aching Sensation:
A dull, persistent ache that can worsen with movement. -
Headache:
Pain can sometimes extend into the head. -
Feeling of Tightness:
The neck may feel rigid or “locked up.” -
Muscle Weakness:
Reduced strength in the neck muscles that can affect stability. -
Popping or Clicking:
Sensations of popping when moving the neck. -
Pain on Movement:
Increased pain when you turn or tilt your head. -
Local Inflammation:
Signs of redness and warmth around the injured area. -
Difficulty Breathing:
Severe pain or swelling may sometimes interfere with normal breathing. -
Discomfort During Daily Activities:
Everyday tasks like talking or turning your head may become painful.
Diagnostic Tests for Omohyoid Muscle Injury
Doctors use various tests to diagnose an omohyoid muscle injury. Here are 20 diagnostic methods or assessments that might be used:
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Physical Examination:
The doctor palpates (presses) on your neck to check for tenderness and swelling. -
Medical History Evaluation:
Reviewing your symptoms, previous injuries, and overall health. -
Ultrasound Imaging:
Uses sound waves to create images of the soft tissues in your neck. -
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI):
Provides detailed images of muscles and other soft tissues to spot tears or inflammation. -
Computed Tomography (CT) Scan:
Helps rule out bone injuries that might occur along with muscle injury. -
X-ray:
Although less detailed for soft tissues, X-rays rule out fractures near the muscle. -
Electromyography (EMG):
Measures electrical activity in the muscle to detect abnormal function. -
Nerve Conduction Studies:
Tests how well nerves are transmitting signals to the muscle. -
Blood Tests:
In some cases, these tests help rule out infections or inflammatory conditions. -
Doppler Ultrasound:
Evaluates blood flow in the neck to ensure proper circulation. -
Endoscopy:
A camera inspection inside the throat may be used if swallowing problems are severe. -
Dynamic Ultrasound:
Observes the muscle while you move your neck. -
Palpation Exam:
Manual examination of the muscle for tenderness or trigger points. -
Range of Motion Tests:
Evaluates how much your neck can move, indicating any restrictions. -
Functional Movement Assessment:
Assesses how muscle injury affects daily activities. -
Thermography:
Uses heat mapping to identify areas of inflammation. -
Muscle Biopsy (Rarely):
A small tissue sample may be examined in unusual cases to rule out other conditions. -
Electrodiagnostic Testing:
Checks the health of the muscle and surrounding nerves. -
Stress Testing:
Evaluates how the muscle responds under controlled exertion. -
Clinical Provocative Tests:
Specific maneuvers performed by the doctor to reproduce your symptoms and pinpoint the injury.
Non‑Pharmacological Treatments
These treatments do not involve medications but instead focus on physical interventions and lifestyle changes to aid recovery and reduce pain:
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Rest:
Avoid activities that strain your neck to allow for healing. -
Ice Therapy:
Apply ice packs to reduce swelling and pain in the early stages. -
Heat Therapy:
Use warm compresses after the initial swelling has gone down to relax muscles. -
Physical Therapy:
Guided exercises and techniques to strengthen the neck and improve range of motion. -
Stretching Exercises:
Gentle stretches designed for the neck muscles help prevent tightness. -
Neck Massage:
Professional massage can relieve muscle tension and improve circulation. -
Yoga:
Specific yoga poses help increase flexibility and reduce stress on the neck. -
Acupuncture:
Traditional technique that may reduce pain and inflammation. -
Ergonomic Adjustments:
Adjusting your workstation and posture to reduce neck strain. -
Ultrasound Therapy:
Therapeutic ultrasound waves can help promote healing in soft tissues. -
Electrical Stimulation:
Mild electrical currents can help reduce pain and muscle spasms. -
Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS):
A wearable device that uses electrical pulses to relieve pain. -
Chiropractic Care:
Manual adjustments by a chiropractor may improve neck alignment. -
Soft Tissue Mobilization:
Techniques by a therapist to gently mobilize the injured muscle. -
Gentle Exercise:
Low-impact activities such as walking can support overall recovery. -
Posture Correction:
Training and reminders to maintain a healthy neck and head position throughout the day. -
Active Release Therapy:
A specialized massage technique to reduce scar tissue and improve mobility. -
Myofascial Release:
Therapy targeting the muscle’s connective tissue to relieve pain. -
Trigger Point Therapy:
Identifying and releasing tight spots within the muscle. -
Deep Tissue Massage:
Focused massage to relieve deeper muscle knots. -
Kinesiology Taping:
Special tape application that supports muscle function and reduces pain. -
Hydrotherapy:
Using water-based exercises and warm baths to ease muscle stiffness. -
Balance Exercises:
To improve overall stability and reduce the risk of falls. -
Tai Chi:
Slow, flowing movements that improve balance, flexibility, and body awareness. -
Pilates:
Exercises focused on core strength that can indirectly support neck muscles. -
Weight Management:
Maintaining a healthy weight to reduce overall strain on the body. -
Breathing Exercises:
Techniques that promote relaxation and reduce muscle tension. -
Meditation:
Regular practice can help manage stress, which in turn reduces muscle tension. -
Stress Reduction Techniques:
Methods such as mindfulness or gentle stretching routines to lower stress levels. -
Biofeedback:
Learning to control muscle tension and reduce pain through guided feedback.
Drug Treatments for Omohyoid Muscle Injury
Sometimes medications are used to complement non‑pharmacological approaches. Below are 20 drugs that may be prescribed or recommended:
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Ibuprofen:
A common non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) to reduce pain and swelling. -
Naproxen:
Another NSAID that helps alleviate inflammation and discomfort. -
Aspirin:
Often used for its pain‑relieving and anti-inflammatory properties. -
Diclofenac:
A prescription NSAID for moderate to severe pain and inflammation. -
Acetaminophen (Tylenol):
Provides pain relief though without strong anti‑inflammatory effects. -
Celecoxib (a COX‑2 inhibitor):
Reduces inflammation with a lower risk of some side effects. -
Cyclobenzaprine (Muscle Relaxant):
Helps relax tense muscles and relieve spasms. -
Diazepam:
A benzodiazepine that may be used short term to relax muscles. -
Gabapentin:
Can be used for nerve‑related pain that sometimes accompanies muscle injuries. -
Methylprednisolone (Corticosteroid Injection):
Reduces severe inflammation in targeted areas. -
Tramadol:
A milder opioid pain reliever used when other pain medications are insufficient. -
Diclofenac Gel:
A topical NSAID applied directly to the affected area. -
Lidocaine Patches:
Provide localized numbing to reduce pain. -
Topical Capsaicin:
Creams that help reduce pain by desensitizing nerve receptors. -
Amitriptyline (Antidepressant):
Sometimes prescribed in low doses to help with chronic pain. -
Meloxicam:
An NSAID useful for reducing inflammation over a longer duration. -
Ketorolac:
Used for short‑term management of moderate to severe pain. -
Pregabalin (Anticonvulsant):
Similar to gabapentin, helps reduce nerve‑related pain. -
Vitamin D Supplements:
Sometimes recommended if a deficiency is affecting muscle health. -
Calcium Supplements:
Used to support overall muscle function and bone health.
Surgical Procedures for Severe Omohyoid Injuries
Surgery is rarely required for omohyoid muscle injuries; however, in cases of severe damage or complications, doctors may consider surgical options:
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Surgical Repair of a Muscle Tear:
Reattaching torn muscle fibers to restore structure and function. -
Decompression Surgery:
In rare cases, reducing pressure on nearby nerves or structures affected by the injury. -
Muscle Release Surgery:
Carefully cutting and releasing muscle or connective tissue that is entrapping nerves. -
Scar Tissue Removal (Adhesiolysis):
Removing unwanted scar tissue that may have formed after an injury. -
Myotomy:
Surgical cutting of a small portion of the muscle to relieve pain or tension. -
Muscle Reconstruction:
Procedures to rebuild or repair severely damaged muscle tissue. -
Neurolysis:
Surgical release of a nerve that may be compressed by injured tissue. -
Tendon Repair:
If the injury extends to where the muscle connects to the hyoid bone or scapula. -
Endoscopic Muscle Surgery:
Minimally invasive surgery using a small camera and instruments to repair the injury. -
Open Surgical Repair:
A traditional surgical approach used when a more comprehensive repair is required.
Prevention Strategies
Reducing the risk of an omohyoid muscle injury involves lifestyle and workplace choices. Consider the following preventive measures:
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Proper Warm‑Up:
Always perform neck and shoulder warm‑up exercises before engaging in physical activities. -
Regular Stretching:
Daily stretching of the neck can improve flexibility and reduce the risk of strain. -
Ergonomic Workplace:
Arrange your desk and chair to support good posture and reduce neck strain. -
Strengthening Exercises:
Incorporate exercises that build neck and upper body strength. -
Maintain Proper Posture:
Avoid slouching by keeping your shoulders back and your head aligned with your spine. -
Avoid Repetitive Strain:
Take regular breaks if your job involves long periods of sitting or repetitive movements. -
Use Proper Lifting Techniques:
Bend at the knees (not the waist) and lift heavy objects carefully to avoid neck and back injuries. -
Adequate Rest:
Ensure you get enough sleep and allow your muscles to recover after strenuous activities. -
Stay Hydrated and Nourished:
A balanced diet and proper hydration help maintain muscle health. -
Wear Protective Gear:
Use appropriate head or neck guards when participating in high-risk sports or activities.
When to See a Doctor
While minor neck strains may often improve with home care, there are situations when you should seek professional medical advice:
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Persistent or Severe Pain:
If your pain does not improve after a few days of rest and self‑care. -
Swelling and Redness:
Signs of infection or severe trauma require professional evaluation. -
Limited Movement:
If you experience a significant loss in your range of motion or muscle weakness. -
Difficulty Swallowing or Breathing:
These symptoms may indicate a more serious complication. -
Numbness or Tingling:
If you have sensations that suggest nerve involvement, see your doctor promptly. -
History of Neck Trauma:
If you have been in an accident or experienced a direct blow to your neck. -
Unexplained Symptoms:
When symptoms persist without a clear cause, medical assessment is warranted.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Below are 15 common questions along with clear, evidence‑based answers about omohyoid muscle injuries:
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What is an omohyoid muscle injury?
An omohyoid muscle injury involves damage to the thin muscle in your neck that helps move the hyoid bone. It can result from strains, tears, or contusions due to overuse or direct trauma. -
What are the common causes of such an injury?
Causes include repetitive strain, sudden jerking motions, direct trauma, sports injuries, poor posture, heavy lifting, falls, and even complications from surgery. -
What symptoms should I look out for?
Common symptoms are neck pain, stiffness, swelling, muscle spasms, difficulty swallowing, limited movement, and sometimes radiating pain or muscle weakness. -
How is an omohyoid muscle injury diagnosed?
Diagnosis usually involves a physical examination and may include imaging tests like ultrasound, MRI, or CT scans to assess the damage. -
When should I see a doctor about my neck pain?
If you have persistent pain, significant swelling, trouble moving your neck, or problems with swallowing or breathing, you should seek medical help. -
What non‑drug treatments can help?
Rest, ice/heat therapy, physical therapy, massage, stretching, yoga, and ergonomic adjustments are common non‑pharmacological treatments. -
What types of drugs are used to treat this injury?
Doctors may recommend NSAIDs (like ibuprofen and naproxen), muscle relaxants, corticosteroids, and topical analgesics depending on the severity of the injury. -
Are there surgical options for treatment?
Surgery is rarely needed but may be considered in severe cases involving complete tears or complications such as nerve compression. -
How long does recovery usually take?
Recovery time can vary from a few days to several weeks, depending on the severity of the injury and the treatment approach. -
Can physical therapy help me fully recover?
Yes, physical therapy is highly effective in restoring range of motion, reducing pain, and strengthening the neck muscles during recovery. -
Is this type of injury common?
Omohyoid muscle injuries are less common than other neck injuries, but they can occur in people who engage in sports, repetitive activities, or who experience neck trauma. -
What are the key non‑pharmacological treatments?
Techniques include rest, ice/heat applications, stretching and strengthening exercises, massage, ergonomic improvements, and therapies such as acupuncture or TENS. -
How can I prevent an omohyoid muscle injury?
Prevention strategies include maintaining proper posture, using ergonomic setups, warming up before activities, doing regular stretching exercises, and using proper techniques during heavy lifting. -
Are there any complications of an untreated injury?
Without proper care, an untreated injury may lead to chronic pain, reduced mobility, and in rare cases, nerve involvement. -
Will lifestyle changes make a difference in recovery?
Absolutely. Lifestyle adjustments such as managing stress, maintaining a healthy diet, and staying active can promote recovery and help prevent further injury.
Conclusion
Omohyoid muscle injuries, while not as common as other neck injuries, can significantly affect your quality of life if not properly diagnosed and treated. With clear knowledge of the anatomy, causes, symptoms, and treatment options—from non‑pharmacological interventions to medications and even surgical options when needed—you can take an active role in managing the condition and preventing future injuries. If you experience persistent neck pain, restricted movement, or any difficulty with swallowing or breathing, it is important to seek medical advice promptly.
Disclaimer: Each person’s journey is unique, treatment plan, life style, food habit, hormonal condition, immune system, chronic disease condition, geological location, weather and previous medical history is also unique. So always seek the best advice from a qualified medical professional or health care provider before trying any treatments to ensure to find out the best plan for you. This guide is for general information and educational purposes only. Regular check-ups and awareness can help to manage and prevent complications associated with these diseases conditions. If you or someone are suffering from this disease condition bookmark this website or share with someone who might find it useful! Boost your knowledge and stay ahead in your health journey. We always try to ensure that the content is regularly updated to reflect the latest medical research and treatment options. Thank you for giving your valuable time to read the article.
The article is written by Team Rxharun and reviewed by the Rx Editorial Board Members
Last Update: April 07, 2025.
