Which muscles depress the scapula?

Study for the Muscle Actions and Functions – Anatomy and Movement Test. Equip yourself with multiple choice questions, each with detailed explanations and hints. Prepare confidently for your exam!

Multiple Choice

Which muscles depress the scapula?

Explanation:
Depressing the scapula means pulling it downward toward the rib cage. The lower fibers of the trapezius pull the scapula downward when they contract, and they also help with downward rotation. The pectoralis minor attaches to the coracoid process and to ribs 3–5; its contraction pulls the scapula downward and anteriorly, producing depression and a slight anterior tilt. Serratus anterior mainly protracts the scapula and helps upwardly rotate it, so it doesn’t contribute to downward movement. Together, the lower trapezius and the pectoralis minor best account for scapular depression.

Depressing the scapula means pulling it downward toward the rib cage. The lower fibers of the trapezius pull the scapula downward when they contract, and they also help with downward rotation. The pectoralis minor attaches to the coracoid process and to ribs 3–5; its contraction pulls the scapula downward and anteriorly, producing depression and a slight anterior tilt. Serratus anterior mainly protracts the scapula and helps upwardly rotate it, so it doesn’t contribute to downward movement. Together, the lower trapezius and the pectoralis minor best account for scapular depression.

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