Which muscle extends the neck and elevates or retracts the scapula?

Which muscle extends the neck and elevates or retracts the scapula?

• A. Trapezius
• B. Latissimus Dorsi
• C. Deltoid
• D. External Intercostals

Answer: (A)

The muscle that can extend the neck and also move the scapula is the trapezius. It’s a large back muscle with parts that perform distinct scapular motions: the upper fibers elevate the scapula (as in a shrug), the middle fibers retract the scapula (pulling the shoulder blades toward the spine), and the lower fibers help depress the scapula. When the shoulder girdle is stabilized, contraction of the trapezius on both sides can also contribute to extending the neck by pulling on the cervical spine and base of the skull. That combination of neck extension with scapular elevation or retraction fits this description exactly. Latissimus dorsi mainly moves the arm and does not elevate or retract the scapula, nor does it extend the neck. Deltoid moves the arm at the shoulder and isn’t a primary mover of the scapula or neck extension. External intercostals assist with breathing by lifting the ribs, not with neck extension or scapular positioning.

The muscle that can extend the neck and also move the scapula is the trapezius. It’s a large back muscle with parts that perform distinct scapular motions: the upper fibers elevate the scapula (as in a shrug), the middle fibers retract the scapula (pulling the shoulder blades toward the spine), and the lower fibers help depress the scapula. When the shoulder girdle is stabilized, contraction of the trapezius on both sides can also contribute to extending the neck by pulling on the cervical spine and base of the skull. That combination of neck extension with scapular elevation or retraction fits this description exactly.

Latissimus dorsi mainly moves the arm and does not elevate or retract the scapula, nor does it extend the neck. Deltoid moves the arm at the shoulder and isn’t a primary mover of the scapula or neck extension. External intercostals assist with breathing by lifting the ribs, not with neck extension or scapular positioning.