During swallowing, it contracts, elevating the soft palate to help prevent food from entering the nasopharynx. It is innervated via the pharyngeal plexus, primarily by the pharyngeal branch of the vagus nerve (CN X). The levator veli palatini (Levator palati) is a thick, rounded muscle situated lateral to the choanæ. read more
The five muscles of the soft palate play important roles in swallowing and breathing. The muscles are: Tensor veli palatini, which is involved in swallowing; Palatoglossus, involved in swallowing; Palatopharyngeus, involved in breathing; Levator veli palatini, involved in swallowing; Musculus uvulae, which moves the uvula; These muscles are innervated by the pharyngeal plexus via the vagus nerve, with the exception of the tensor veli palatini. read more
Start studying Anatomy Swallowing, hyoid, tongue, soft palate, pharynx. Learn vocabulary, terms, and more with flashcards, games, and other study tools. read more
The levator veli palatini muscle arises from the cartilaginous portion of the auditory tube and the petrous part of the temporal bone. It inserts into the palatine aponeurosis as well as the fibers of the muscle on the opposite side. It elevates both the soft palate and pulls it posteriorly, which helps close the nasopharynx during swallowing. read more