What is the origin of the rhomboid minor?

• A. Spinous processes T2-T5
• B. Spinous processes C7-T1 and the nuchal ligament
• C. Transverse processes C1-C4
• D. Spinous processes T7-T4

Answer: (B)

Origin of the rhomboid minor is from the spinous processes of C7 and T1 and the nuchal ligament. This high cervical attachment fits with its location and role: the rhomboid muscles lie deep to the trapezius and run from the vertebral column to the medial border of the scapula, with the minor occupying the area above the spine of the scapula. From these origins, the muscle fibers sweep laterally and downward to insert on the upper medial border of the scapula, allowing it to retract the scapula and help rotate it to immobilize the scapulothoracic joint.

As a point of contrast, the rhomboid major attaches to the spinous processes of T2 through T5, which explains why it has a larger, lower origin. The other options don’t align with the known attachments of the rhomboid minor. The nuchal ligament contribution helps explain the connection to C7, reflecting its position at the top of the rhomboid muscle pair.