Based on the provided scenario, explain how the normal function of the three tiny bones in the middle ear contributes to hearing and why their inability to move would cause the reported symptoms.

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The middle ear is the central section of the ear, situated between the eardrum and the inner ear. It contains three tiny bones collectively known as the ossicles: the malleus (hammer), incus (anvil), and stapes (stirrup).

Middle Ear

The ossicles are structures that move in response to vibrations from the eardrum. As they move, the stapes presses against the oval window of the cochlea.

Ossicles

The tensor tympani is attached to the malleus bone, while the stapedius is connected to the stapes bone. 



The muscles improve auditory perception and protect the inner ear from potentially damaging sounds. When there is a loud sound, the muscles tense via the reflex arc. When the muscles tense, the chain of ossicles transmit less energy, causing the vibration of sounds transmitted to the inner ear to be reduced. Self-made sounds are also reduced, which means the sound of our moving head, swallowing motions, or voice are dampened to the levels most people are used to. The muscles activate moments before we produce self-made sounds such as coughing.

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