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What is a pectoralis minor injury?
The pectoralis minor muscle is the smaller of the two chest muscles responsible for movements of the scapula (shoulder blade). It lies underneath the larger chest muscle, pectoralis major and is important in providing support for the shoulder joint. Physiotherapy is an excellent treatment for a pectoralis minor injury.
Above: Soft tissue massage of the pectrol muscle by experienced therapistHow does a pectoralis minor injury happen?
Pectoralis minor injuries are relatively uncommon but can be caused by poor posture or repetitive trauma to the muscle during gym activities. This can be referred to as “the bench-presser’s shoulder”. Pectoralis minor is often injured in combination with larger muscles of the shoulder such as pectoralis major and the deltoid.
What are the symptoms of a pectoralis minor injury?
There are many symptoms associated with a pectoralis minor injury. Possible symptoms include:
What should I do if I have a pectoralis minor injury?
If you are experiencing symptoms of a pectoralis minor injury, it is important to have a physiotherapy assessment to resolve the problem as soon as possible.
Above: Trigger point massage applied to the chest muscles by a specialist MSK therapistPhysiotherapy treatment for a pectoralis minor injury.
There are a number of options to treat a pectoralis minor injury using physiotherapy. Physiotherapy may include a home exercise programme, electrotherapy and postural education. The treatment you receive will be tailored specifically to your needs and will depend on your main goals and problems. Other treatment options include:
What shouldn’t I do if I have a pectoralis minor injury?
If you notice symptoms of a pectoralis minor injury, you should not ignore them. If you continue with your normal activities, you may aggravate the injury further. This will delay your recovery and may cause long term problems with this muscle.
Above: Soft tissue massage applied to the chest by an experienced therapistCould there be any long-term effects from a pectoralis minor injury?
A pectoralis minor injury should not cause long term complications but it is important to receive physiotherapy as soon as possible to optimise your recovery.
Above: Progressive strength training for the chest muscles supervised by specialist MSK physiotherapistTo arrange a physiotherapy assessment call Physio.co.uk on 0330 088 7800 or book online.
