The pharyngeal muscles are a group of muscles located in the throat, playing a crucial role in swallowing and breathing. They help propel food from the mouth into the esophagus and assist in closing the airway during swallowing to prevent food from entering the lungs. These muscles are primarily divided into two categories: the constrictor muscles and the longitudinal muscles. The constrictor muscles, including the superior, middle, and inferior constrictors, work together to squeeze food down the throat. The longitudinal muscles, such as the stylopharyngeus and salpingopharyngeus, help elevate the pharynx and larynx during swallowing. Proper function of the pharyngeal muscles is essential for safe and effective swallowing, as well as for clear speech.