Which muscles contribute to the flexion of the shoulder?

The muscles that contribute to shoulder flexion are primarily the flexors of the shoulder joint. Flexion at the shoulder occurs when the arm is raised forward, bringing it closer to the head or forward of the body. The principal muscles involved in this movement include the anterior deltoid, pectoralis major (clavicular portion), and the coracobrachialis. These muscles work to contract and bring the arm through a flexion movement effectively.

While other muscles, such as the extensors or adductors, serve different functions, they do not play a primary role in flexion. Extensors, for instance, help in moving the arm backward, and adductors are involved in bringing the arm closer to the body’s midline. Understanding the specific functions of the muscle groups is crucial for applying biomechanics principles effectively, especially when analyzing movements and planning rehabilitation or strength training exercises.