• Origin

Frontal belly: epicranial aponeurosis (galea aponeurotica)
Occipital belly: superior nuchal line of the occipital bone and mastoid part of the temporal bone

• Insertion

Frontal belly: skin and subcutaneous tissue of the eyebrows and forehead
Occipital belly: epicranial aponeurosis

• Agonist(s)

Temporalis (for scalp retraction)

Orbicularis oculi (for facial expression synergy)

• Antagonist(s)

Gravity (in facial expression)

Corrugator supercilii (for eyebrow drawing medially and downward)

• Function

Elevates eyebrows, wrinkles the forehead (horizontal lines), and moves the scalp.
Frontal belly draws the scalp anteriorly; occipital belly retracts the scalp.
Plays a key role in nonverbal communication (e.g., expressions of surprise or curiosity).

TRIGGER POINT(S)

• Location

Trigger points are most commonly found in the frontal belly just above the eyebrows and in the occipital belly along the superior nuchal line.

• Pain Referral Pattern

Frontal belly: pain often refers to the forehead, particularly above the eyebrows and behind the eyes.

Occipital belly: pain can refer to the back of the head, the crown, and sometimes behind the eyes.

These trigger points are commonly associated with tension-type headaches.

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Potential Causes

• Prolonged facial tension or frowning.

• Habitual raising of eyebrows (e.g., due to stress or concentration).

• Poor posture, especially forward head posture.

• Eye strain or excessive screen time.

• Clenching or tension in surrounding cranial muscles.

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Prevention Tips

• Practice stress-reduction techniques and regular relaxation of facial muscles.

• Take frequent breaks from screens and reduce visual strain.

• Maintain ergonomic posture while sitting or working.

• Incorporate gentle scalp massage and facial stretching into daily routine.

• Address contributing postural issues or neck muscle imbalances through therapy or strengthening.