PLATYSMA

GENERAL INFORMATION

The platysma is a superficial muscle located in the neck and lower face, responsible for movements of the skin and lower jaw. It plays a crucial role in facial expressions, such as frowning or grimacing, and helps tighten the skin of the neck. Though thin and flat, this muscle contributes to both aesthetic appearance and functional movement. The proper function of this muscle helps maintain a youthful, firm look to the neck and lower jawline and prevents sagging skin.

ORIGIN

The platysma originates from the fascia covering the superior portions of the pectoralis major and deltoid muscles, which are located in the upper chest and shoulder areas.

INSERTION POINT

It inserts into the lower border of the mandible and the skin of the lower face, allowing it to control both jaw movement and skin tightening in the neck.

MAJOR ARTERIES

• Facial Artery: Supplies blood to the lower part of the face and the platysma.

• Submental Artery: Provides blood flow to the upper neck and chin area, nourishing the platysma.

NEURAL INNERVATION

• Cervical Branch Of The Facial Nerve (Cranial Nerve VII): This nerve innervates the platysma, enabling its role in facial expressions and neck movement.

TRIGGER POINT

Tension in this muscle can manifest as tightness in the neck or a feeling of pulling in the lower face. This movement may cause discomfort during activities like speaking, chewing, or turning the head. Trigger points in this muscle can also contribute to tension headaches and jaw pain.

CONCENTRIC FUNCTION

During concentric contraction, this muscle shortens, pulling the corners of the mouth downwards and depressing the mandible. This action is critical in producing expressions such as sadness or anger.

ECCENTRIC FUNCTION

As the platysma lengthens during an eccentric contraction, it allows the mouth and jaw to return to a relaxed position after facial expressions. This function helps control and soften facial movements.

ISOMETRIC FUNCTION

The platysma can hold tension in a static position to support the neck’s skin and stabilise the lower jaw during activities such as speaking or chewing.

RELATED MUSCLES – SCIENTIFIC NAMES

• Masseter Muscle: Aids in closing the jaw during chewing.

• Sternocleidomastoid: Assists with neck movement and stabilisation.

• Orbicularis Oris: Controls movements of the lips and mouth.

• Depressor Anguli Oris: Works alongside the platysma in facial expressions by pulling down the corners of the mouth.

ANTAGONIST

• Masseter: Opposes the platysma by elevating the mandible closing the mouth during chewing and speech.

• Zygomaticus Major: Opposes the downward pull of the platysma by raising the corners of the mouth and smiling.

COMMON INJURIES

• Platysma Strain: Overuse of the platysma, especially during repeated facial expressions, can lead to tightness, discomfort, and difficulty with jaw movement.

• Neck Tension: Stress or poor posture can cause the platysma to tighten, leading to tension in the neck and lower face.

• Sagging Skin: With age, weakening of the platysma can contribute to the appearance of sagging skin or a “turkey neck” effect, as the muscle loses its firmness.

• Tension Headaches: Tightness in the platysma can contribute to headaches, particularly when the muscle’s trigger points cause radiating pain up towards the jaw and temples.

• Temporomandibular Joint (Tmj) Dysfunction: Dysfunction in the jaw can overwork the platysma, causing tension and discomfort during chewing or speaking.

EXERCISES

• Platysma Contraction Exercise: Open your mouth wide and pull the corners of your mouth down, tightening the skin of your neck. This exercise strengthens the platysma by actively engaging the muscles.

• Jaw Resistance Exercise: Place your hand under your chin and press lightly as you open your mouth. This exercise strengthens the platysma and surrounding jaw muscles.

• Facial Yoga: Pull your lower lip upwards towards your nose while contracting your neck. This exercise targets the platysma and helps tone the lower face and neck area.

• Neck Lift Exercise: Lie flat on your back and lift your head slightly off the ground while tucking your chin in. This exercise engages the platysma and strengthens the neck muscles.

• Cheek And Neck Lift: Smile as widely as possible while raising your chin slightly, then release. This exercise works both the platysma and the muscles of the lower face.

STRETCHES

• Platysma Stretch: Open your mouth wide and pull your lips tightly over your teeth, then extend your chin upwards. This stretches the front of the neck and releases tension in the platysma.

• Neck Side Stretch: Tilt your head to one side, holding for 20-30 seconds to release tension in the platysma and surrounding muscles.

• Chin Tuck Stretch: Tuck your chin gently towards your chest to stretch the back of the neck, easing tightness in the front and improving overall flexibility.

• Upper Trapezius Stretch: Gently tilt your head to the side while pulling your opposite shoulder down. This stretch relieves tension in the upper neck, benefiting the platysma.

• Jaw Stretch: Open and close your mouth widely while tilting your head upwards. This stretch helps release tension in the jaw and platysma, improving flexibility and relieving tightness.