Which muscle assists in elevating the ribs when the scapula is fixed?

Study the Muscle Actions and Functions Test. Explore anatomy and movement with flashcards and multiple choice questions. Master your exam with hints and explanations check your understanding!

Multiple Choice

Which muscle assists in elevating the ribs when the scapula is fixed?

Explanation:
When the scapula is fixed, some muscles can act to lift the rib cage to aid inhalation, and serratus anterior does exactly that. It runs from the upper ribs to the medial border of the scapula, so with the scapula held in place, its contraction pulls on the ribs upward and outward, increasing thoracic volume during forced breathing. The other muscles listed are primarily shoulder movers or stabilizers and don’t elevate the ribs when the scapula is fixed, so they don’t contribute to rib elevation in this scenario.

When the scapula is fixed, some muscles can act to lift the rib cage to aid inhalation, and serratus anterior does exactly that. It runs from the upper ribs to the medial border of the scapula, so with the scapula held in place, its contraction pulls on the ribs upward and outward, increasing thoracic volume during forced breathing. The other muscles listed are primarily shoulder movers or stabilizers and don’t elevate the ribs when the scapula is fixed, so they don’t contribute to rib elevation in this scenario.

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