Facts
Injuries of the pectoralis major muscle can include a rupture in
the insertion of the muscle, on the superior anterior portion of the humerus.
Although uncommon, pectoralis major muscles ruptures occur usually in men
between the ages of 20 and 50. The causes of this injury involve intensive
weightlifting, such as the bench press. Sports such as football, rugby,
wrestling, and other full contact sports can cause a pectoralis major muscle
rupture. Symptoms include a sudden and tearing pain in the chest, as well as an
inability to lift arms out in front of the body. Ideally, surgery can be done
within the early stages of the injury to better the chances of a full recovery.
A rare genetic anomaly called Poland’s syndrome occurs in which
the pectorial muscles are absent or severely underdeveloped on one side of the
body. This condition can impair the arm and hand of the corresponding side of
the affected pectoralis muscle. Notable athletes with Poland’s syndrome include
Olympic boxing bronze and silver medallist, Jerome Thomas—occurring on the left
side. Along with an absent left pectoralis major, Thomas’ left arm and hand are
shorter and smaller than that of the right. Bryce Molder, a PGA golfer, is also
diagnosed with Poland’s syndrome on the left side. Molder also has a smaller
left hand and shorter left arm.
the insertion of the muscle, on the superior anterior portion of the humerus.
Although uncommon, pectoralis major muscles ruptures occur usually in men
between the ages of 20 and 50. The causes of this injury involve intensive
weightlifting, such as the bench press. Sports such as football, rugby,
wrestling, and other full contact sports can cause a pectoralis major muscle
rupture. Symptoms include a sudden and tearing pain in the chest, as well as an
inability to lift arms out in front of the body. Ideally, surgery can be done
within the early stages of the injury to better the chances of a full recovery.
A rare genetic anomaly called Poland’s syndrome occurs in which
the pectorial muscles are absent or severely underdeveloped on one side of the
body. This condition can impair the arm and hand of the corresponding side of
the affected pectoralis muscle. Notable athletes with Poland’s syndrome include
Olympic boxing bronze and silver medallist, Jerome Thomas—occurring on the left
side. Along with an absent left pectoralis major, Thomas’ left arm and hand are
shorter and smaller than that of the right. Bryce Molder, a PGA golfer, is also
diagnosed with Poland’s syndrome on the left side. Molder also has a smaller
left hand and shorter left arm.