Trapezius

The trapezius seems to be more complicated than other muscles so I chose to give this muscle its own page.

Below is the muscle study aid for massage therapy students.

It is also known as the coat hanger muscle. It covers more than half of the back. The upper, middle, and lower portions perform 3 separate actions. Also, this muscle can be an antagonist to itself.

Origins:

External occipital protuberance

Superior nuchal lines

Nuchal ligament

Spinous processes of C7-T12

Insertions:

Lateral one third of clavicle

Acromion process

Scapular spine

Actions of upper fibers:

Extends neck and head

Elevates scapula

Rotates scapula upward

Action of middle fibers:

Retracts scapula

Action of lower fibers:

Depresses scapula

This muscle also laterally flexes the neck and rotates the head by unilateral (one-sided) contraction.

Return from Trapezius to Muscles