ES is elongation of the styloid process(es) which is actually calcification of the stylohyoid ligament. The s-h ligament runs from the tip of the styloid processes to the lesser horns of the hyoid bone. The hyoid bone also has two greater horns. Hyoid bone syndrome arrises from the greater horns becoming elongated or thickening such that the hyoid bone loses some of it’s movement & begins to press on some of the same nerves that elongated styloids &/or calcified s-h ligaments irritate.
The hyoid bone can also become “tethered” by calcified stylohyoid ligaments. Under normal conditions it moves freely up & down & a little side to side when we swallow, talk, laugh, cough, sneeze, breathe, etc. When it loses the ability to move as it needs to, pain results.
Here are some internet pictures to help you visualize these areas:
Click on the box w/ the question mark & the link for the hyoid bone picture should open. Please let me know if it doesn’t.
