NIC Barber Written (Theory) ExamScientific ConceptsHard
A barber is performing a scalp massage and aims to stimulate the large muscle that covers the top of the skull, from the forehead to the back of the head. Which muscle is the barber targeting?
- AFrontalis
- BOrbicularis oris
- CTemporalis
- DOccipitofrontalis
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Occipitofrontalis
The occipitofrontalis (also known as the epicranius) is a broad muscle that covers the top of the skull, consisting of two bellies (frontal and occipital) connected by an aponeurosis. It is responsible for raising the eyebrows and wrinkling the forehead.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. The frontalis is only the anterior (forehead) part of the occipitofrontalis, not the entire muscle covering the top of the skull.
- B. The orbicularis oris is the muscle around the mouth, not the scalp.
- C. The temporalis is a muscle on the side of the head, involved in chewing, not covering the top of the skull.
Occipitofrontalis
A broad muscle that covers the top of the skull, consisting of frontal and occipital bellies.
- Also known as the epicranius.
- Responsible for raising eyebrows and wrinkling the forehead.
- Important for scalp mobility and facial expression.
Memory trick: Occipitofrontalis: The 'Occiput to Front' muscle.