temporoparietalis

The temporoparietalis muscle is a small, thin muscle located in the temporal and parietal regions of the scalp. It is part of the epicranius muscle group, which is responsible for moving the scalp and eyebrows. The temporoparietalis is situated superior to the temporalis muscle and deep to the galea aponeurotica, a strong, fibrous layer that covers the top of the skull. This muscle originates from the temporal fascia and the superior nuchal line of the occipital bone and inserts into the posterior part of the galea aponeurotica. Its primary action is to tense the scalp and assist in retracting the scalp. In conjunction with other muscles of the epicranius, it can help elevate the eyebrows and wrinkle the forehead. The temporoparietalis muscle receives its blood supply from the superficial temporal artery and is innervated by the temporal branch of the facial nerve. Its function is generally considered to be minor in humans compared to other mammals where scalp movement plays a more significant role in communication and expression.