Anatomy

Origin

It arises from the cartilaginous portion of the auditory tube and the adjoining part of the great wing of the sphenoid, as well as from the osseous canal in which it is contained. 

Insertion

Passing backward through the canal, it ends in a slender tendon which enters the tympanic cavity, makes a sharp bend around the extremity of the septum, and is inserted into the manubrium of the malleus, near its root. 

Nerve

It is supplied by a branch of the mandibular nerve through the otic ganglion.

Actions

The Tensor tympani draws the tympanic membrane medialward, and thus increases its tension.