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Upper trapezius

Traps · Back

Origin
Occipital bone and the nuchal ligament
Insertion
Lateral third of the clavicle
Action
Elevates and upwardly rotates the scapula

The visible slope between the neck and shoulder. Shrugs and heavy carries load it directly; it also works in overhead pressing.

Main exercises

Also works in

Upper trapezius anatomy page →

Exercises that train the upper trapezius

Nearby muscles