College of Massage Therapists of British Columbia (CMTBC) Practice Exam

Does the frontalis attach to the modiolus?

1. Yes

2. No

3. Only in infants

4. Yes, but indirectly

The correct answer is: No

The frontalis muscle, part of the occipitofrontalis, primarily acts on the forehead to raise the eyebrows and form wrinkles on the forehead. It is located at the front of the head, while the modiolus is found at the corners of the mouth, serving as a key point of muscular attachment for various muscles related to facial expression. Understanding the anatomy of these structures is crucial here. The frontalis does not have a direct or anatomical attachment to the modiolus. Instead, its function and movements involve different muscles around the facial region, such as the zygomaticus and orbicularis oris, which do attach to the modiolus. This distinction highlights that while the frontalis plays a significant role in facial expressions, it does not contribute to the structure or function of the modiolus directly. Thus, the conclusion that the frontalis does not attach to the modiolus is accurate.