Pharyngeal Muscles

The pharyngeal muscles are muscles of the throat (pharynx) located between the mouth and the larynx. They play an important role in swallowing, speaking, and respiration (breathing). These muscles help move food from the mouth to the stomach and control the opening and closing of the upper airway (upper respiratory tract). Additionally, they aid in respiration by helping to open and close the larynx and also by assisting with vocal production. The pharyngeal muscles are also essential for the maintenance of proper posture and for keeping the airways open during sleep.