Which muscles are involved in scapular upward rotation?

Which muscles are involved in scapular upward rotation?

• A. Trapezius and Serratus Anterior
• B. Rhomboids and Levator Scapulae
• C. Pectoralis Minor and Serratus Anterior
• D. Deltoid and Latissimus Dorsi

Answer: (A)

Upward rotation of the scapula is produced by the coordinated action of the trapezius and serratus anterior. The trapezius, especially its upper and lower fibers, rotates the scapula upward as the arm is lifted, while the serratus anterior pulls the medial border of the scapula away from the spine and helps rotate the scapula upward, enabling full overhead movement. Together, these two muscles position the scapula for elevation and arm abduction. Rhomboids and levator scapulae tend to pull the scapula toward the spine and can contribute to downward rotation or elevation rather than upward rotation, so they’re not the primary drivers. Pectoralis minor protracts and downwardly tilts the scapula, opposing upward rotation. Deltoid and latissimus dorsi mainly move the arm and shoulder region, with less direct responsibility for rotating the scapula upward.

Upward rotation of the scapula is produced by the coordinated action of the trapezius and serratus anterior. The trapezius, especially its upper and lower fibers, rotates the scapula upward as the arm is lifted, while the serratus anterior pulls the medial border of the scapula away from the spine and helps rotate the scapula upward, enabling full overhead movement. Together, these two muscles position the scapula for elevation and arm abduction.

Rhomboids and levator scapulae tend to pull the scapula toward the spine and can contribute to downward rotation or elevation rather than upward rotation, so they’re not the primary drivers. Pectoralis minor protracts and downwardly tilts the scapula, opposing upward rotation. Deltoid and latissimus dorsi mainly move the arm and shoulder region, with less direct responsibility for rotating the scapula upward.