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SENIAM recommended Shoulder Right

M. Trapezius Pars Transversa

Middle Trapezius (Trap Trans R)

The M. Trapezius Pars Transversa (Middle Trapezius) is a muscle of the shoulder region. It is responsible for retraction (adduction) of scapula, scapular stabilization. This muscle is one of 26 with official SENIAM-recommended surface EMG electrode placement. This page documents the exact electrode position, anatomical attachments and a standardized test movement based on Hermens et al. (2000).

Function

Retraction (adduction) of scapula, scapular stabilization

Opposite side: Trap Trans L
Rotate the body, see the electrode position in place — and check the neighbouring muscles right away. View in 3D Viewer

Electrode Placement (SENIAM)

50% between medial scapular border and T3

Orientation: Horizontal, toward spine–scapula line

Source: SENIAM (Hermens 2000) ↗

Hermens HJ, Freriks B, Disselhorst-Klug C, Rau G. Development of recommendations for SEMG sensors and sensor placement procedures. J Electromyogr Kinesiol. 2000;10(5):361-74.

Based on SENIAM recommendations (Hermens et al. 2000). Not an official SENIAM product. See all references →

Anatomy

Origin Proc. spinosi Th1–Th4 Insertion Acromion, spine of scapula (medial)

Test Movement

Retract scapulae against resistance (squeeze shoulder blades together)

Clinical Applications

Common use cases for surface EMG measurement of the M. Trapezius Pars Transversa:

Measure M. Trapezius Pars Transversa activity live

The electrode is placed — what next? easyEMG visualises muscle activity in real time, with SENIAM-compliant placement guidance, up to 4 channels at once and biofeedback training right afterwards.

In rehabilitation, the Middle Trapezius is typically recorded to track progress and retrain activation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where do I place the EMG electrode on the M. Trapezius Pars Transversa?

50% between medial scapular border and T3. Orientation: Horizontal, toward spine–scapula line. Based on the official SENIAM recommendations (Hermens et al. 2000).

Which test movement activates the M. Trapezius Pars Transversa?

Retract scapulae against resistance (squeeze shoulder blades together). This movement is part of the SENIAM protocol for standardized contraction verification.

Is the M. Trapezius Pars Transversa a SENIAM-recommended muscle?

Yes. The M. Trapezius Pars Transversa is one of 26 muscles for which the SENIAM project has published official surface EMG electrode placement recommendations.

Related Muscles in This Region

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