Issue link: https://www.massageandbodyworkdigital.com/i/1256819
greater range in shoulder adduction. Pulling motions, such as rowing, are the result of the rhomboids and trapezius working together to retract the scapula. Along with the middle trapezius, the rhomboids are commonly underdeveloped and elongated. This can contribute to a rounded-shoulder posture and is commonly seen in clients who work at computers or otherwise maintain forward-arm positions for long periods. When the scapula is held in a protracted and depressed position, the rhomboids elongate and the serratus anterior shortens. This creates muscle tension and decreased mobility in the shoulder girdle and cervical spine that clients perceive as neck and shoulder pain or stiffness. Maintaining optimal length and strength in the muscles of the shoulder girdle contributes to healthy alignment and mobility in the upper body. Christy Cael is a licensed massage therapist and certified strength and conditioning specialist. Her private practice focuses on injury treatment, biomechanical analysis, craniosacral therapy, and massage for clients with neurological issues. She is the author of Functional Anatomy: Musculoskeletal Anatomy, Kinesiology, and Palpation for Manual Therapists (Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 2009). Contact her at christy_cael@hotmail.com. Palpating Rhomboids Positioning: client prone with arm at side. 1. Locate the spinous processes of C7–T5. 2. Palpate to the medial border of the scapula with the fingertips. 3. Notice that the muscle belly is flat, and the fiber direction is oblique and inferior. 4. Resist as the client performs scapular retraction and elevation to ensure proper location. Client Homework: Active Scapular Movements Positioning: client standing or seated. 1. Sit or stand facing forward with your arms at your sides and shoulders relaxed. 2. Begin by shrugging your shoulder, shortening the distance between your shoulder blade and back of your head. Do not move your arm, just the shoulder blade. 3. Next, keeping your arm at your side, push your shoulder blade down and away from your head. 4. Return to neutral then squeeze your shoulder blades together. 5. Next, pull your shoulder blades as far apart as you can. 6. Repeat all. N e w ! A B M P P o c k e t P a t h o l o g y a t w w w. a b m p . c o m / a b m p - p o c k e t - p a t h o l o g y - a p p . 39 Editor's note: The Client Homework element in Functional Anatomy is intended as a take-home resource for clients experiencing issues with the profiled muscle. The stretches identified in Functional Anatomy should not be performed within massage sessions or progressed by massage therapists, in order to comply with state laws and maintain scope of practice.