The genioglossus muscle is located at the base of the tongue on both side of its septum. Triangular in shape, it is one of the extrinsic muscles of this organ. It originates from the mental spine of the mandible (called symphysis), fanning out as it extends backwards to insert into the lingual fascia and the hyoid bone.
Action
The genioglossus protrudes (sticks out) and depresses the tongue, pulling it forwards and backwards. Not only does it contribute in the motor articulation of this organ to produce speech, but it is also one of the muscles involved in deglutition (swallowing) of food, a vital reflex action whose center is located in the medulla oblongata.
Innervation and Blood Supply
The genioglossus muscle is innervated by the hypoglossal nerve and is supplied by collateral branches of the lingual artery, which arises from the external carotid artery.
Below, right side of the human face, showing the genioglossus and other extrinsic muscles of the tongue.
