Pectoralis Major Tendon Tear

Understanding Pectoralis Major Tendon Tear

The pectoralis major is the large chest muscle that pulls the arm across the body and rotates it inward. Its tendon attaches to the top of the arm bone just below the shoulder. A pectoralis tear usually occurs where the tendon meets the bone or where the muscle meets the tendon.

Most tears happen to men between 30 and 60 during a forceful contraction with the arm stretched out, classically the lowering phase of a bench press. They also occur in football, wrestling and other contact sports. Anabolic steroid use increases the risk.

Partial tears and tears within the muscle are often treated without surgery. Complete tears of the tendon from the bone in active patients generally do best with surgical repair, ideally within the first few weeks after injury.

Causes & Risk Factors

• Bench pressing heavy weight
• Contact sports such as football, rugby and wrestling
• A forceful pull with the arm stretched out
• Anabolic steroid use

Symptoms

Common signs and symptoms of Pectoralis Tendon Tear include:

• A sudden pop or tearing sensation in the chest or upper arm
• Sharp pain and weakness pushing or bringing the arm across the body
• Bruising of the chest and upper arm
• A change in the contour of the chest or armpit fold

Treatment Options

Treatment for Pectoralis Tendon Tear depends on the severity of your condition and may include:

• Rest, ice and a sling for partial or muscle tears
• Physical therapy to restore motion and strength
• Surgical repair of complete tendon tears
• Reconstruction with a tendon graft for chronic tears