Which group of muscles is responsible for elevating the hyoid and larynx?

The group of muscles that is responsible for elevating the hyoid and larynx is the suprahyoid muscles. These muscles, which include the digastric, stylohyoid, mylohyoid, and geniohyoid, are located above the hyoid bone. Their contraction pulls the hyoid bone upward during activities such as swallowing and speaking, facilitating the upward movement of the larynx as well.

This upward movement is crucial for the protection of the airway, as it allows for the epiglottis to close over the larynx, preventing food and liquid from entering the trachea. The role of the suprahyoid muscles in this context underscores their importance in the mechanics of swallowing and phonation.

In contrast, the infrahyoid muscles, located below the hyoid bone, primarily function to depress the hyoid and larynx, which is not relevant to the elevation process being described. Neck flexors are involved in movement of the neck and do not specifically elevate the hyoid or larynx, while intercostal muscles are associated with rib movement during respiration and play no role in hyoid or laryngeal elevation. Thus,