Scapular elevation

Last revised by Craig Hacking on 7 Oct 2021

Citation, DOI, disclosures and article data

Citation:

Zhou E, Hacking C, Scapular elevation. Reference article, Radiopaedia.org (Accessed on 25 Apr 2024) https://doi.org/10.53347/rID-93708

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.53347/rID-93708

Permalink:

https://radiopaedia.org/articles/93708

rID:

93708

Article created:

3 Oct 2021, Edward Zhou

Disclosures:

At the time the article was created Edward Zhou had no recorded disclosures.

View Edward Zhou's current disclosures

Last revised:

7 Oct 2021, Craig Hacking ◉ ◈

Disclosures:

At the time the article was last revised Craig Hacking had no recorded disclosures.

View Craig Hacking's current disclosures

Revisions:

3 times, by 2 contributors - see full revision history and disclosures

Systems:

Musculoskeletal

Sections:

Anatomy

Synonyms:

Elevation of the scapula
Scapula elevation

Scapular elevation refers to the cranial motion of the scapula (scapulothoracic joint), commonly described as “shrugging the shoulders”. This movement is facilitated by several muscles and it is useful to distinguish these as primary movers and stabilizers. It is important to note that no one movement of the scapula occurs in isolation and no individual muscle exerts a singular action on the scapula. In addition, movement of the clavicle also aids scapular motion by virtue of its articulation with the scapula as part of the pectoral girdle. The opposite movement is scapular depression.

Primary movers

trapezius – generates elevation through its upper fibers by virtue of its attachment to the acromion and spine of the scapula, and the lateral clavicle
levator scapulae - works with trapezius to elevate the scapula (specifically, it elevates the superior angle of the scapula). Also prevents lateral rotation of scapula (i.e. a medial rotator)
rhomboideus major and minor – minor action through elevation of the medial border of the scapula. They also prevent lateral rotation of scapula.