Rhomboid Major & Minor – Anatomy Breakdown Video & Clinical Guide
The Rhomboid Major and Minor muscles are essential scapular stabilizers that often get overlooked until pain or postural dysfunction shows up. In this video, we’ll break down their origin, insertion, function, innervation, and clinical relevance. Perfect for students, clinicians, trainers, or anyone looking for clear, practical insights into upper back and shoulder anatomy.
Watch the full video below and read on for a detailed breakdown.
Quick Hits
The Rhomboid Major and Minor are deep scapular muscles located beneath the trapezius. Together, they retract, stabilize, and help downwardly rotate the scapula.
Rhomboid Minor Origin: Nuchal ligaments and spinous processes of C7–T1.
Rhomboid Minor Insertion: Medial border of the scapula at the level of the spine.
Rhomboid Major Origin: Spinous processes of T2–T5.
Rhomboid Major Insertion: Medial border of the scapula from the spine to the inferior angle.
Innervation: Dorsal scapular nerve (C4, C5).
Actions: Scapular retraction, downward rotation, and elevation. They also help stabilize the scapula against the thoracic wall during upper limb movements.
These muscles work together as a functional unit to maintain controlled, stable scapular movement.
Clinical Relevance
Clinically, Rhomboid Major and Minor are critical for posture correction and scapular control. Weakness or inhibition often leads to scapular protraction, forward shoulder posture, and altered movement patterns that increase injury risk.
They’re also common sites of myofascial trigger points, especially in people with poor posture, chronic desk work, or stress-related muscle tension.
Rehabilitation focuses on motor control, endurance, and scapular retraction training rather than just brute strength. Exercises include band pull-aparts, prone ITY variations, and rowing with scapular retraction cues.
What’s Next
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