Rupture of the pectoralis major tendon

What is the pectoralis major tendon?

The pectoralis major muscle is a large powerful muscle at the front of the chest. It used to rotate the arm inwards, pull a horizontal arm across the body, pull the arm from above the head down and pull the arm from the side upwards. It is most likely to rupture at the point where it inserts into the arm (humerus). It is more common in weight training, especially when performing a Bench Press.

Symptoms include:

• A sudden sharp pain at the front of the arm or shoulder.
• Pain and swelling over the front of the shoulder or upper arm.
• Pain when you try to bring your arm inwards and across your chest against resistance.
• Pain when you try to rotate you arm inwards against resistance.
• A gap or lump visible in the muscle.

What can the athlete do about it?

• Apply R.I.C.E. (rest, ice, compression, elevation) at least for the first two days.
• See a sports injury specialist or doctor.

What can a sports injury specialist or doctor do?

• Operate if it is a total rupture (torn right through the muscle)
• Advise on a rehabilitation programme.
• Apply sports massage techniques after the acute period.

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