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Physio Energy

Muscles

Pectoralis major

Adducts, flexes and internally rotates the shoulder.

Referred pain map

Pectoralis major
Pectoralis major — clavicular section: trigger points refer pain into the anterior deltoid and breast region.
Pectoralis major
Pectoralis major — sternal section: refers into the anterior chest and down the ulnar side of the arm to the hand (a common cardiac-mimic pattern).
Pectoralis major
Pectoralis major — lateral/costal fibers referring to the anterior shoulder and pectoral region.
Pectoralis major
Pectoralis major — parasternal/lower fibers: intense local chest-wall pain, an important non-cardiac chest pain source.

Overview

Adducts, flexes and internally rotates the shoulder. Trigger points here are common in everyday and athletic populations and frequently contribute to the referred pain patterns described below.

Trigger point locations

Across the anterior chest from sternum and clavicle to the humerus.

Referred pain pattern

Anterior chest pain, sometimes mimicking cardiac symptoms; refers down the ulnar arm.

Palpation & testing

Palpate the muscle belly along its accessible course. Reproduction of the patient's familiar pain on palpation supports involvement.

Common causes

Bench pressing, push-ups, rounded shoulders, post-cardiac surgery.

Self-care & clinical treatment

Doorway stretches, scapular retraction. Clinically: needling and manual release.

Symptoms commonly linked

References

  • • Travell & Simons — Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction
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