Which of the following structures make up the scapulothoracic articulation?

The scapulothoracic articulation is a unique functional joint that involves the movement of the scapula against the thoracic wall, which is the rib cage. This articulation does not have a direct bony connection; instead, it is made up of the body of the scapula and the muscles covering the posterior chest wall.

This relationship is crucial as it allows the scapula to glide smoothly against the rib cage during arm movements, contributing to the overall range of motion of the shoulder complex. The muscles that play a significant role in this dynamic include the serratus anterior, trapezius, and rhomboids, which stabilize and facilitate scapular movement.

While other choices mention structures related to the shoulder complex or the skeletal system, they do not accurately describe the specific interaction that defines the scapulothoracic articulation, which is fundamentally about the relationship between the scapula and the supporting soft tissue structures around the rib cage.