What is levator veli palatini?

The levator veli palatini is a muscle located in the soft palate of the mouth. It is one of the muscles responsible for the movement of the soft palate during swallowing and speaking. The levator veli palatini helps to lift the soft palate and close off the nasal passages during swallowing to prevent food and liquid from entering the nasal cavity.

This muscle also plays a role in the process of equalizing pressure between the middle ear and the pharynx by opening the Eustachian tube. This can help prevent ear infections and improve hearing.

The levator veli palatini is innervated by the pharyngeal plexus, which is made up of branches from the glossopharyngeal nerve (CN IX) and the vagus nerve (CN X).

Weakness or dysfunction of the levator veli palatini can result in issues with swallowing, speech, and middle ear health. In some cases, therapy or surgery may be recommended to address these issues.