Rhomboids

There are two rhomboid muscles - Rhomboid major and rhomboid minor. Rhomboid major is larger and positioned below rhomboid minor. Chins and dips are excellent activities for developing these muscles.

 

Origin

  • Spinous processes of C7-T5.

Insertion

  •   Medial border of the scapula, below the level of the spine of the scapula. 

Actions

  • Scapula retraction (bringing the shoulder blades together).
  • Rotation of the scapula downwards

Innervation

  • Dorsal scapular nerve.  

Daily uses

  • Pulling a drawer open.  

Example strengthening exercises

  • Reverse fly with a resistance band. 
  • Seated row with a resistance band. 

Example stretches

  •  Posterior shoulder stretch. 

Related injuries

  • Postural kyphosis. 

Related muscles

  • Trapezius Serratus anterior.