Rhomboid Major

Authors
Affiliations

Nate Yomogida, B.S., SPT

Doctor of Physical Therapy

B.S. in Kinesiology

Chloë Kerstein, B.S., SPT

Doctor of Physical Therapy

B.A. in Neuroscience

Figure 1: Muscles of the Neck and Back
Figure 2: Muscles that position the Pectoral Girdle
Reading list
  • Trigger points
    • Rhomboid minor and major Muscle
    • Rhomboids
  • MMT

Origin

SP T1–T4

Insertion

Medial border of scapula (below scapular spine)

Figure 3: Left scapula (Posterior view)

Innervation

Dorsal Scapular N. (C4, C5)

Action

STJ: Retraction, Downward rotation, Stabilization

The rhomboid major fixes the scapula to the thoracic wall.

Function

The Serratus Anterior (along with the rhomboids) serves to aid in scapular stability during arm elevation

Release

Compressing the rhomboid against the ribcage is not the most effective way to release this muscle. It is better to stabilize the scapula with one hand and drive the fingertips of the other hand anterolaterally deep to the scapula in order to apply a stretch.

Paralysis

Rhomboid paralysis can result in a separation of the scapula from the thoracic wall, known as a “scapular winging sign”.

References

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Citation

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