Which muscle has upper fibers that elevate the scapula?

• A. Deltoid
• B. Pectoralis Minor
• C. Teres Major
• D. Trapezius

Answer: (D)

Elevating the scapula is performed by the upper fibers of the trapezius. These fibers run from the skull and upper spine to the clavicle and the top of the scapula, and when they contract they lift the shoulder blade upward, like during a shrug. This specific action is what distinguishes the trapezius from the other muscles listed: the deltoid mainly moves the arm at the shoulder joint rather than the scapula; the pectoralis minor pulls the scapula forward and downward; the teres major acts on the arm, not the scapula. So the upper fibers of trapezius are the ones that elevate the scapula.