Muscles
Rhomboid major
Retracts and downwardly rotates the scapula.
Overview
Retracts and downwardly rotates the scapula. Trigger points here are common in everyday and athletic populations and frequently contribute to the referred pain patterns described below.
Trigger point locations
Between the scapular vertebral border and the thoracic spinous processes.
Referred pain pattern
Superficial ache between the scapulae, often described as 'burning' along the medial border.
Palpation & testing
Palpate the muscle belly along its accessible course. Reproduction of the patient's familiar pain on palpation supports involvement.
Common causes
Prolonged forward reaching, rounded shoulders, stress posture.
Self-care & clinical treatment
Scapular setting drills, pec stretching. Clinically: needling, manual release.
Symptoms commonly linked
References
- • Travell & Simons — Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction