Pectoralis Major and Minor Strains and Tears

Pectoralis major or minor strains and tears can occur in individuals performing strong physical activities such as weightlifting and in those participating in contact sports such as football and hockey. The incidence rate of these injuries has risen in the last several years given the increasing popularity of recreational sports and bodybuilding. The diagnosis can occasionally be made based on history and physical examination, though MRI has become the imaging modality of choice. Conservative therapy is recommended for partial tears of both pectoralis major and minor tendons as well as in cases of complete pectoralis minor ruptures. However, surgical repair is recommended for complete tears of the pectoralis major tendon especially in young patients, athletes, and active individuals. Nonsurgical management is recommended only in proximal pectoralis major tears and in elderly or sedentary patients.