Rhomboids originate from the spinous processes of which vertebrae for the major and minor portions?

• A. Rhomboids originate from spinous processes of T2-T5 (major) and C7-T1 (minor)
• B. Rhomboids originate from spinous processes of L1-L5
• C. Rhomboids originate from transverse processes of C1-C4
• D. Rhomboids originate from the clavicle

Answer: (A)

The major rhomboid originates from the spinous processes of the T2 through T5 vertebrae, while the minor rhomboid comes from the spinous processes of C7 through T1. This arrangement places their origins in the upper to mid-back so they can effectively pull the scapula medially and work with downward rotation. The other options don’t fit because the lumbar spinous processes (L1–L5) are too low to serve these muscles, the transverse processes of C1–C4 point to a different muscle (levator scapulae), and the clavicle is not a source for rhomboid origins.