PECTORALIS MAJOR

PECTORALIS MAJOR

The pectoralis major is a major chest muscle. It is fan-shaped.

Origin

Clavicular head – clavicle, medial aspect.

Sternocostal head – sternum, costal cartilages, external oblique aponeurosis.

Insertion

Humerus – bicipital groove.

Blood supply

Thoracoacromial artery, internal thoracic artery, superior thoracic artery, intercostal arteries.

Nerve supply

Medial pectoral nerve, lateral pectoral nerve.

Action

The pectoralis major has its primary action on the humerus bone – it is responsible for the flexion and rotation of the humerus and thus the arm.

Disease/Injury

Absence of pectoralis major on one side of the chest is known as ‘Poland syndrome.’

Muscle Exercise

The pectoralis muscles are one of the most important chest muscles for weightlifters and bodybuilders. Exercises such as pushups and bench presses increase the strength of the muscle.

Interesting facts

The pectorals are colloquially known as ‘pecs.’

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