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Pectoralis Major

Region

Origin & Insertion

['Origin: Clavicle, sternum, costal cartilages of ribs 1–6', 'Insertion: Lateral lip of intertubercular groove of humerus']

Synergistic Muscles

['Latissimus dorsi', 'Subscapularis']

Joints

['Glenohumeral joint']

Primary Actions

['Shoulder flexion', 'Adduction', 'Internal rotation']

Nerve & Spinal Segment

Medial and lateral pectoral nerves

Brachial plexus; C5–T1

Interesting

Large chest muscle, key in pushing power. [Gray’s Anatomy]

Reversal of Action

Common Dysfunctions

Reduced pushing strength, anterior shoulder tightness, rounded posture

How to Stretch

Doorway stretch with shoulder at 90°.

Trigger Points

How to Strengthen

Pushing movements with horizontal adduction.

Concentric Action

Applications:

Eccentric Action

Isotonic Action

Related Conditions

['Shoulder impingement', 'Costochondritis']

Isometric Action

Exercise Ideas

['Push-up', 'Bench press', 'Cable fly']

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