Rhomboid Muscles
The rhomboids are two muscles that connect the spine to the inner border of the scapula. The rhomboid minor sits above the larger rhomboid major. Both lie beneath the trapezius.
Rhomboid major and minor
Rhomboid minor runs from the lower neck and upper thoracic region to the scapula. Rhomboid major begins lower on the thoracic spine and attaches along a longer section of the inner scapular border.
Movement of the scapula
The rhomboids help draw the shoulder blade toward the spine, hold it against the trunk, and assist downward rotation. They work with the serratus anterior, trapezius, and other muscles as the arm moves.
Pain around the inner shoulder blade
Pain beside the shoulder blade doesn’t identify the rhomboids as the cause. The neck, shoulder joint, ribs, and nearby tissues can produce discomfort in a similar area. A tender spot isn’t a diagnosis.
Use in back care
Hands-on back care may include the area over the rhomboids. The pressure should stay within a comfortable range. Massage doesn’t prove that a winged scapula or round shoulders have been corrected.
Related terms
- Scapula: The bone where the rhomboids attach.
- Levator scapulae: A muscle that helps raise the scapula.
- Round shoulders: A posture description rather than one muscle problem.
- Trigger point: A separate concept used to discuss localized tenderness and referred pain.
