Final answer:
The hypoglossal nerve is responsible for controlling the muscles of the tongue, and its stimulation can help alleviate airway obstruction caused by the tongue in obstructive sleep apnea patients.
Step-by-step explanation:
The nerve responsible for moving the tongue and potentially alleviating some symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea is the hypoglossal nerve. This nerve controls the movements of the majority of the tongue's muscles. Specifically, the genioglossus muscle, which is innervated by the hypoglossal nerve, facilitates the protrusion of the tongue.
In cases where obstructive sleep apnea is caused by the tongue obstructing the airway, stimulation of the hypoglossal nerve can help move the tongue forward, reducing the obstruction. Although this might not completely treat sleep apnea, it can be a part of the management plan, especially in cases where more conservative treatments have been inadequate.