What is the proximal attachment of the rhomboid minor?

The correct answer identifies the proximal attachment of the rhomboid minor as the nuchal ligament and the spinous processes of the seventh cervical vertebra and the first thoracic vertebra. This is accurate because the rhomboid minor muscle originates from these specific anatomical structures, which provide the necessary leverage and stability for its function.

The nuchal ligament, extending from the occipital protuberance to the spinous processes of the cervical vertebrae, supports the attachment of muscles in the upper back, including the rhomboids. The spinous processes of CV7 and TV1 allow the muscle to effectively retract and elevate the scapula. Understanding this proximal attachment is vital for grasping how the rhomboid minor contributes to shoulder mobility and posture since it plays a role in retracting the scapula towards the spine.

In contrast, the other options reference different vertebrae that do not correspond to the documented origins of the rhomboid minor, which helps clarify its specific anatomical details and the reasons behind muscle attachments in relation to function.