How many muscles does it take to frown?

Discovery Health

Science doesn't have a definitive number, in spite of what you might have heard or read in an e-mail. People's frowns vary; some folks have more facial muscles than others, giving them the ability to be more expressive.

Continue Learning about Functions of Muscles

Gerald M. Silverman

An important group of structures within the muscle are the sensory and motor nerves. These nerve...

Rick Olderman

Our muscles often have multiple functions, such as the gluteus maximus, which extends and externally...

National Athletic Trainers' Association

The rib cage assists with breathing by using a pair of muscles located between each rib known as the...

Gerald M. Silverman

Under ideal circumstances, the nerves in muscles are constantly producing and transmitting infor...

Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Functions of Muscles

Muscles keep your body moving by contracting and relaxing. In some cases, this movement is voluntary. You use your skeletal muscles to bend your arms or legs when you want. Smooth muscles, however, are part of the involuntary movement within your body. These muscles surround organs of the digestive tract as well as the arteries. You don't have to be aware of the process -- your brain controls the function! One of the most vital muscles is the cardiac muscle, or heart. Understanding the functions of muscles can help you keep them healthy or treat injury as needed.

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