What is an action of the rhomboids?

• A. Scapular Retraction
• B. Scapular Protraction
• C. Scapular Depression
• D. Scapular Retraction, Elevation, and Downward Rotation

Answer: (D)

The rhomboids work to pull the scapula toward the spine (retraction), lift it (elevation), and rotate it downward. This combination not only brings the shoulder blade back but also steadies it for arm movements and positions the glenoid fossa for certain lifts. The full set of actions is why the best answer lists all three movements.

Scapular retraction alone is true but incomplete. Protraction is not performed by the rhomboids—it's mainly the serratus anterior (and sometimes the pectoralis minor in different contexts). Depression isn’t a primary action of the rhomboids; that movement comes more from the lower trapezius and pectoralis minor.