The rhomboid major is the primary scapular retractor, drawing the scapula toward the spine. Its action rotates the glenoid downward (opposite to serratus anterior and trapezius), making it a functional antagonist during arm elevation.
| Origin | Spinous processes of T2-T5 |
|---|---|
| Insertion | Medial border of the scapula — between the scapular spine and inferior angle |
| Nerve Supply | Dorsal scapular nerve (C4, C5) |
| Blood Supply | Dorsal scapular artery |
| Actions | Retracts the scapula — draws it toward the spine; Elevates the medial scapular border — rotates the glenoid downward; Fixes the scapula to the thorax |
|---|
Rhomboid winging (medial scapular border prominence from the back) results from dorsal scapular nerve injury — distinct from serratus anterior winging (lateral scapular border prominence). Rhomboid strengthening is key in the treatment of scapular dyskinesis and impingement syndrome.
Palpated between the medial scapular border and the thoracic spinous processes during resisted scapular retraction.
Medial scapular border winging from dorsal scapular nerve palsy producing reduced scapular retraction and scapular instability.
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