Alberta Written Barber Practice Exam

What muscle is primarily responsible for drawing the head back and elevating the shoulder blades?

1. Deltoid

2. Trapezius

3. Latissimus dorsi

4. Rhomboid

The correct answer is: Trapezius

The muscle that is primarily responsible for drawing the head back and elevating the shoulder blades is the trapezius. This large, triangular muscle extends from the base of the skull down the back of the neck and out to the shoulders. It plays a critical role in movements of the shoulder girdle, including elevation, retraction, and rotation of the scapula, which are essential for many arm movements. When the trapezius contracts, it can pull the shoulder blades upward and back, effectively stabilizing and elevating the shoulders. This action not only aids in posture by supporting the neck and head but also contributes significantly to various activities such as lifting and reaching overhead. Other muscles listed do have roles in shoulder and upper back movements, but they do not primarily function to both elevate the shoulder blades and draw the head back like the trapezius does. For example, the deltoid primarily aids in arm movements rather than shoulder elevation, the latissimus dorsi is mainly involved in arm extension and adduction, while the rhomboid focuses on scapular retraction and rotation rather than head and shoulder elevation.