The superior oblique muscle is one of the six extraocular muscles responsible for eye movement. It originates from the back of the eye socket and passes through a structure called the trochlea, allowing it to change direction. This muscle primarily helps in rotating the eye downward and outward. When the superior oblique muscle contracts, it assists in looking down and towards the nose, which is essential for activities like reading or descending stairs. Dysfunction of this muscle can lead to conditions such as diplopia, or double vision, affecting visual coordination and clarity.