Muscle
Rhomboid minor
Scapular retractor (superior)
High-yield
Sits above rhomboid major; both retract the scapula via the dorsal scapular nerve.
Overview
A small cylindrical muscle superior to rhomboid major with the same retracting action on the scapula.
Reference facts
- Origin
- Nuchal ligament and spinous processes of C7-T1
- Insertion
- Medial border of the scapula at the root of the spine
- Action
- Retracts and rotates the scapula to depress the glenoid cavity
- Innervation
- Dorsal scapular nerve (C4, C5)
- Blood supply
- Dorsal scapular artery
Frequently asked questions
What does the rhomboid minor do?
The rhomboid minor retracts and rotates the scapula to depress the glenoid cavity.
What nerve innervates the rhomboid minor?
The rhomboid minor is innervated by the dorsal scapular nerve (C4, C5).
Where does the rhomboid minor attach?
The rhomboid minor originates from the nuchal ligament and spinous processes of C7-T1 and inserts on the medial border of the scapula at the root of the spine.
What is the blood supply of the rhomboid minor?
The rhomboid minor is supplied by the dorsal scapular artery.