What is Pectoralis Tear?
The pectoralis major is a powerful chest muscle that supports the arm to rotate inward and move closer to the body. It also helps to move the arm forward or backward. Torn pectoral muscles are most frequently initiated by strong activities such as weightlifting, particularly during a bench press workout. The situation might also result from athletic activities such as football, wrestling, rugby, and other traumatic accidents or injuries.
Symptoms of Pectoralis Tear
Following are the major symptoms of pectoralis tear:
- Acute Pain and sudden weakness.
- Weakness in the shoulder blade.
- Pain while breathing.
- Ripping sensation.
- Swelling or bruising in the chest and armpit.
- Softness of muscles.
- Pain while using pectoralis muscles.
Treatments for Pectoralis Tears
Minor pectoralis tear may heal with non-surgical measures, such as:
- Rest.
- Application of cold packs.
- Modified activities.
- Sling usage.
- Anti-inflammatory DRUGS (NSAIDs).
- Physical therapy.
However, more severe tears require surgical intervention.
Full-thickness (complete) tears often require a surgical repair (pectoralis major tendon repair) to control chest muscle pain and to restore full shoulder function. X-rays, MRI, and ultrasounds are very helpful in the treatment of pectoralis muscle tear, confirmed by sports medicine experts. MRI is required when there are complete tears and complete rupture of the tendon. Surgery is usually required to repair pectoralis major injuries, except when there are partial tears of the tendon.
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FAQ’S
What Are the Symptoms of a Torn Pectoral Muscle?
The most common symptoms associated with a torn pectoral muscle include:
- Severe or sharp pain around the affected area.
- Muscular spasms.
- Inability to move the affected area.
- Bruises around the affected area.
How Long Does It Take to Heal a Torn Pectoral Muscle?
- The recovery, healing, and rehabilitation process may take anywhere from six months to a year.
- Light strengthening exercises for the arm will start two to three months after the surgery.
How Do You Diagnose a Pectoral Tear?
- For getting complete recovery from a pectoral tear, accurate diagnosis is mandatory.
- Your specialist may ask you to go for a diagnostic imaging test such as an MRI or CT scan to assess the level of injury.
Will a Torn Pectoral Muscle Heal Itself?
- The healing rate of a torn pectoral muscle largely depends on the level of severity of the injury and your lifestyle.
- Surgery is a must if you are suffering from a completely torn pectoral muscle.
