COWL MUSCLE Meaning and
Definition
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The cowl muscle, also known as the cowl neck muscle or the sternocleidomastoid (SCM) muscle, is a prominent muscle located on the sides of the neck. It derives its name from its appearance, resembling a cowl, which is a loose hood or neck covering typically seen on certain garments. The cowl muscle consists of two separate muscles, one on each side of the neck, that extend from the mastoid process of the skull behind the ear to the sternum and clavicle in the front of the chest.
The primary function of the cowl muscle is to facilitate movement and stabilization of the head and neck. Acting unilaterally, it allows rotation of the head to the opposite side. When both sides contract together, they flex the neck and bring the chin down towards the chest. Additionally, the cowl muscle supports and assists in the elevation of the ribcage during inspiration, aiding in the process of breathing.
Due to its superficial location, the cowl muscle is easily visible and palpable, making it a useful landmark for medical professionals when examining the neck and surrounding structures. Dysfunction or injury of the cowl muscle can result in a range of symptoms, including pain and stiffness in the neck, restricted range of motion, headaches, and difficulty breathing. Physical therapy, stretching exercises, and other therapeutic interventions are commonly utilized to alleviate these issues and restore proper function to the cowl muscle.
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Musculus trapezius, cucullaris.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for COWL MUSCLE
- xowl muscle
- vowl muscle
- fowl muscle
- dowl muscle
- ciwl muscle
- ckwl muscle
- clwl muscle
- cpwl muscle
- c0wl muscle
- c9wl muscle
- coql muscle
- coal muscle
- cosl muscle
- coel muscle
- co3l muscle
- co2l muscle
- cowk muscle
- cowp muscle
- cowo muscle
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