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Musculus trapezius (xlas)

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clean, all important angles + additional info (all latin names)

Synonyms: Trapezius muscle; Trapezius; Neck muscle

not final

Summary

The Musculus trapezius is the biggest neck muscle (surface area) we have and very relevant in several head and arm movements. Its name giving shape, the trapezoid, significantly shapes the upper back, especially around the neck and the shoulder blades (scapulae). There are 3 parts to the trapezius (top part, middle part, bottom part) and each one pulls in a slightly different direction.

Visual Introduction

general form + 3 parts.jpgleft: General view (white parts = tendons) ; right: 3 parts of the muscle

trapezoid shape.jpgtrapezoid shape to trapezius (easy to remember)

Origin

  • Occipital bone (Os occipitale; lower back of the skull)
  • Cervical vertebrae (spine, neck part)
  • Down to the 12th thoracic vertebra (spine, chest part)

Originating from a vertebra means the tendons connect to the spinous process (little bumps you can feel on your spine) of each vertebra.

Insertion

  • Clavicle (clavicula)
  • Acromion (Pars transversa)
  • Spine of the shoulder blade (Spina scapula)

*insert drawing for insertion and origin*
Ideally in one picture

Viewpoints with simplified shapes

Work with simplified shapes so that other artists can memorize more information.

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Functions

  • Top part:
    • Lifting the shoulder
    • Twisting the shoulder blade (scapula) counterclockwise
    • Tilting and turning the head
  • Middle part: 
    • Pulling the shoulder back
    • Twisting the shoulder blade (scapula) counterclockwise
  • Bottom part:
    • Pulling the shoulder down

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Details

The trapezius is also used when the shoulder blade needs to be pressed against the body, for example in a handstand. Chest muscles (+ serratus anterior) and back muscles, including the trapezius (mostly the middle part) contract at the same time to achieve that.

The rhomboids often contract simultaneously with the trapezius. They pull in a similar direction with the top and middle part of the trapezius and have similar origin and insertion. The rhomboids are located below the trapezius, so you cannot see them on a person.


What is also important if one wants to study this muscle beyond the basics?
Go over the muscle more in detail and share intermediate up to expert knowledge.

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Reference Pictures (for study only)

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Check out this page for resources and explanation

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