Muscles
Latissimus dorsi
Extends, adducts and internally rotates the shoulder; pulls the trunk to a fixed arm.
Overview
Extends, adducts and internally rotates the shoulder; pulls the trunk to a fixed arm. Trigger points here are common in everyday and athletic populations and frequently contribute to the referred pain patterns described below.
Trigger point locations
Posterior axillary fold and along the lower thoracic insertion.
Referred pain pattern
Inferior angle of the scapula, mid-back, and down the medial arm to the ulnar fingers.
Palpation & testing
Palpate the muscle belly along its accessible course. Reproduction of the patient's familiar pain on palpation supports involvement.
Common causes
Pull-ups with poor form, kayaking, climbing, frozen shoulder.
Self-care & clinical treatment
Doorway stretches, foam roll axilla. Clinically: needling and pin-and-stretch.
Symptoms commonly linked
References
- • Travell & Simons — Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction