Zygomaticus Major

The Zygomaticus major is a facial muscle.

Anatomical Attachments:

• Origin: Attaches from the zygomatic arch.
• Insertion: Attaches into the angle of the mouth where it blends with the fibers of the orbicularis oris, levator and depressor anguli oris.

Action: It elevates and depresses the angle of the mouth (smiling muscle).

Synergist: Zygomaticus minor.

Nerve Supply: Cranial nerve VII (Facial nerves)

Vascular supply: Superior labial branch of the facial artery.

• Primary: The pain stretches along the side and the bridge of the nose to the middle of the forehead.
• Satellite or associated triggers: Sternocleidomastoid, Scalene, and Masticatory muscles.

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Trigger Point Signs and Symptoms: Restriction of normal jaw opening.

Trigger Point Activating and Perpetuating Factors: Dysfunction in the muscles of mastication is the most frequently observed perpetuating factor.

Differential Diagnosis: C2 radiculopathy, Tension headaches, Bell’s Palsy, Ophthalmic Herpes zoster, Ramsey Hunt’s Syndrome, Sinusitis, Frostnip, Systemic infections or inflammation, Nutritional inadequacy, Metabolic imbalance, Toxicity, Side effects of medication.

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