Question

which muscle adducts and inferiorly rotates the scapula?

a.) rhomboid major
b.) trapezius
c.) serratus anterior
d.) subclavius

Explanation:

Analyze the actions of each listed muscle on the scapula

• Rhomboid Major: Adducts (retracts), elevates, and inferiorly (downwardly) rotates the scapula.
• Trapezius: Superior fibers elevate and superiorly rotate; middle fibers adduct; inferior fibers depress and superiorly rotate the scapula.
• Serratus Anterior: Abducts (protracts) and superiorly (upwardly) rotates the scapula.
• Subclavius: Depresses and stabilizes the clavicle (minimal direct action on scapular rotation/adduction).

Match the target actions to the correct muscle

• Target actions: Adduction (retraction) and inferior (downward) rotation.
• Rhomboid Major directly performs both adduction and inferior rotation of the scapula.

Answer:

• a.) Rhomboid Major (Correct answer)
• b.) Trapezius
• c.) Serratus Anterior
• d.) Subclavius