Which muscles are primarily responsible for moving the scapula?

The rhomboid muscles and the pectoralis minor play key roles in the movement of the scapula. The rhomboid muscles, which include the rhomboid major and minor, are situated between the spine and the scapula. Their primary function is to retract the scapula, drawing it closer to the spine, and to help stabilize the scapula against the thoracic wall.

The pectoralis minor, located underneath the pectoralis major, assists in stabilizing the scapula by pulling it downward and forward, which can aid in movements like reaching forward or pushing. Together, these muscles contribute significantly to the overall function and mobility of the scapula, making them the primary muscles involved in scapular movement.

The other muscle groups mentioned do have functions related to shoulder and arm movement, but they do not primarily focus on scapular motion. For instance, the deltoid and supraspinatus are more involved in shoulder abduction, while the biceps and triceps focus primarily on elbow flexion and extension, respectively. The latissimus dorsi and teres major also contribute to shoulder movements but do not engage the scapula in the same direct manner as the rhomboids and pectoralis minor. Thus,