Pectoralis

Pectoralis refers to two large muscles in the chest of the human body: the Pectoralis Major and the Pectoralis Minor. These muscles are commonly referred to as "pecs". They are primarily responsible for movements of the shoulder joint.

Pectoralis Major

The Pectoralis Major is a thick, fan-shaped muscle, situated at the chest (anterior) of the human body. It makes up the bulk of the chest muscles and lies under the breast. The pectoralis major's primary functions are flexion, adduction, and internal rotation of the humerus.

Pectoralis Minor

The Pectoralis Minor is a thin, triangular muscle, located deep to the pectoralis major. It attaches to the ribs, and it functions to stabilize the scapula, the large bone in the back that connects the arm bone to the collar bone.

Clinical Significance

Injuries to the pectoralis muscles are relatively rare. However, when they do occur, they can result in significant functional impairment. The most common injury to the pectoralis major muscle is a rupture of the muscle-tendon unit, often seen in weightlifters. Treatment of these injuries can be non-surgical or surgical, depending on the severity of the injury.

See Also

• Muscular system
• Chest anatomy
• Muscle contraction

References

Pectoralis Resources
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