Where Is the Trapezius Muscle Located in the Body?

The trapezius muscles are found in the upper part of the back.

The trapezius is a large muscle in the human back. It extends from the neck area to the middle of the back. The muscle supports both arms and shoulders and gets its name because it has a trapezoid shape.

Function

The trapezius muscle allows a person to use his shoulder and arms. When the muscle is engaged, it raises the scapula, or shoulder blade, up and down. The trapezius also rotates the shoulder.

Origins

The trapezius muscle originates at three different locations on the back side of the body. The upper section of the muscle begins at the base of the skull. The other two points of origin are the ligaments that run along the spine and a spot on the spine in the upper back. From there the muscle spreads across the back of the shoulders.

Insertions

The muscle also inserts in three different locations. The insertion points for the muscle are on the back side of the clavicle, or collar bone; the top of the shoulder joint where the muscle connects to the insertion point for the humerus bone in the upper arm; and the top edge of the shoulder blade.

References

• Get Body Smart.com: Trapezius Muscle
• ExRx: Trapezius Upper Fibers