Region: Shoulder
Tearing of the large chest muscle near its attachment to the arm. Common in bench press.
What is a Pectoralis Major Strain?
Tearing of the large chest muscle near its attachment to the arm. Common in bench press.
Symptoms
- Sudden pain near front armpit/chest
- Bruising on chest/upper arm
- Weakness pushing forward
What does a Pectoralis
- Sharp pain at time of injury
- Pain/weakness with pushing
What are common causes of Pectoralis Major Strain
- Weightlifting (bench press)
- Forceful pushing overload
Self check
- Did it happen during pushing/benching and now pushing feels weak or painful?
Educational only — not a medical diagnosis.
What to do now
- R.I.C.E.
- Avoid pushing movements initially
Red flags
- Visible gap/dent near armpit/upper chest (possible significant tear)
Recovery tips
- Start gentle range of motion early
- avoid heavy loading ~6+ weeks
- gradual progression
Educational only. Not a medical diagnosis.