temporalisával

The temporalis muscle, located in the temporal region of the skull, is a broad, fan‑shaped muscle that covers the zygomatic arch from the lateral orbital margin to the fossa for the muscle. It originates on the periosteum of the temporal fossa, the sagittal suture, and the mastoid portion of the temporal bone, and it inserts onto the coronoid process of the mandible and the anterior portion of the mandibular ramus. The fibers run vertically to obliquely upward and backward, allowing the muscle to perform several functions when it contracts.

Its primary action is elevation and retraction of the mandible, which is essential for chewing and grinding food. The temporalis also assists in elevation of the mandible when the mouth is closed slowly and produces a small amount of protrusion. During mastication, the muscle works in coordination with the masseter, medial pterygoid, and lateral pterygoid muscles to move the jaw in a smooth, rhythmic pattern. Besides the mechanical actions, the temporalis has an important role in posture and stability of the jaw joint (temporomandibular joint).

Pathologically, hypertrophy or hypertonicity of the temporalis may contribute to temporomandibular disorders. Tension or spasms can cause pain over the temple region, headaches, and facial discomfort. Surgical or nonsurgical interventions, including physiotherapy, physiologic relaxation techniques, and, in some cases, myotomy, are employed to alleviate excessive muscle tension. The temporalis is also occasionally used as a donor site for muscle grafting procedures owing to its accessibility and robust blood supply.