Diagnostic Imaging for a Pectoralis Major Muscle Tear in a 30-Year-Old Weightlifter: A Case Report

Objective

The purpose of this report is to describe the presentation of a patient with a pectoralis major tendon (PMJ) tear.

Clinical Features

A 30-year-old male weightlifter presented to a chiropractor with localized left arm pain that began while bench-pressing. Ecchymosis and swelling were present, but no contour abnormalities were seen. All active shoulder ranges of motion were painful with the exception of adduction, which was palliative but weak. A 4-week trial-of-care alleviated pain, but weakness persisted.

Intervention and Outcome

Diagnostic ultrasound (US) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were ordered. Disruption and retraction of the PMJ were identified on US, and MRI confirmed a PMJ tear. The tear was surgically repaired, and the patient achieved optimal recovery.

Conclusion

This case report provides a clinical example that complete PMJ tears may be difficult to clinically differentiate from a partial tear and must be clarified with imaging.