Question - Pectoralis Tear (Surgery?)

by Graeme
(Perth, Australia)

I am awaiting surgery for a pectoralis tear... just a quick question. Clearly I have torn the pectoralis major tendon where it connects to the arm/shoulder. Now I understand looking at pics there are two parts - the clavicular component and the sternal component. I think i have torn the sternal component. If both parts were torn, the pectoralis would be falling down more, wouldn't it?

If I cancel the surgery are there any side effects later down the track...like instability in the shoulder region? Does it throw it out of balance or something?

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Question - Pectoralis Tear (Surgery?)

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May 27, 2008
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Pain?
by: Bart - SII

Are you having a lot of pain with this injury?
Do you have noticible weakness with your shoulder? Does the muscle look funny when you view it in the mirror?

Whether you tore the sternal or clavicular portion of the muscle doesn't make as much difference as how severe the tear was. If you are having a lot of pain, weakness, and if the muscle has a visible defect (droopy or looks funny in the mirror) then the surgery might help to fix those things...

The pectoralis major is a very large muscle and it will usually heal well on its own as long as you didn't completely detach it from the humerus. If you did detach it, then you could have quite a bit of weakness and problems down the road...if it wasn't detached and was just a muscle tear, you may be able to get by without the surgery and just giving it time to heal on its own.

I would recommend talking to your doctor about your concerns and get their prognosis for your situation if you cancel the surgery...

Hope this helps - comment back if you have other questions.

May 27, 2008
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pec tear
by: graeme

yes there was alot of bruising for the first 2 weeks from the top of the bicep down to albow almost black as black from what i can see in diagrams its like 2 flaps of tendon if only the sternal partis completley torn of the arm is the recovery quicker than both parts torn
when i did the injury there was a sharp pain and a snapping sound yuk
there is alot of weakness try to do a fly there is almost no strength
is the recovery 6 weeks in a sling my orto says 6but alot of articles on the net say 3-6 weeks wat should i expect in the rehab time???
ps this site is great

May 27, 2008
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the sling depends on the surgeon
by: Bart - SII

I have a little better picture of your injury now - and I think that the surgery is probably a good idea for the best recovery. If you have a lot of strength loss and had that much pain, swelling, and bruising, a repair is probably necessary.

As for the sling, 3-6 weeks is probably a good estimate. Most of the time when dealing with muscle or tendon repair, 6 weeks is the standard...the important part is that you don't use the muscle actively while it is healing during the first few weeks...this keeps the stress off of the repair.

After the sling, you will need rehabilitation for several weeks to work on getting your motion and strength back. I would estimate a full return to activities somewhere 3-5 months after surgery, but this will vary significantly from person to person.

Thanks for the kind words about the site!

Sep 08, 2008
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had surgery
by: graeme

hi i had the surgery 3 months ago sling for six weeks and tomorrow is my six week appointment with the surgeon after getting out of the sling yes it was painfull and very fragile for the first 4 weeks in the sling all ways feeling like it was going to rip out yuk a awfull feeling
any way i am having rehab physio motion is almost 80 % external rotation still pretty bad everything else is pretty good i have also started some very light weights no chest work but maybe tomorrow i will be cleared to start i am planning to to be back to decent weights in another 5 months or so
anyway just touching base on how i went thanks graeme

Sep 08, 2008
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Doing well!
by: Bart - SII

It sounds like you are doing well - it is a long process, but you have the right attitude - slow and steady wins the race. Good luck with your continued recovery.

Bart

Sep 30, 2008
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Pectoralis Major Surgery
by: Anonymous

I tore my right Pectoralis Major while benching 405 a little over three months ago, I am 32 years old and have been benching for over 20 years now. My arm went numb almost immediatley after the tear and I could not raise the arm above my head. The next day the arm, and chest area were black and blue. I went to a orthopedic surgeon and had a MRI done, which confirmed the tear. I had surgery one week later. The Dr. informed me that I had tore my tendons which attached the muscle to the pec, one tendon he was able to re attach, but the other was completely shreded so he used a cadavar tendon and grafted it to the other repaired one. I was in a sling for the next two months, which caused my right arm to be next to useless when I was able to remove the sling. I started physical therapy two months out and am now able to have almost full use of the arm after only three weeks, but still no weight training as of yet. I was told no lifting till three months out. I would recomend the surgery to anyone who tears the pec, letting it heal on its own will limit your mobility and will more than likely result in an even worse tear in the future.

Nov 23, 2008
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Torn Pectoralis for the second time
by: Nick

I am 29 yeas old and originally tore my pectoralis major in October of 2007 bench pressing. I just graduated USArmy Air Assault School three weeks before the injury. I must have weakened the muscle during the required training for graduation. My Doctor at the time explained to me that I could do physical therapy and that I could build myself back up but would never be 100% again. He was somewhat correct in the fact that I was able to do 75 push ups in two minutes and was able to do 15 pull ups, but, even though I seemed to be close to 100% I re-tore my Pectoralis major exactly one year later. I will be going through a complete Pectoralis major repair the day before thanksgiving. Lord willing I will be back to 100% or as close to it as I can even though the original injury occurred over a year ago. I pray for a speedy recovery for all of you including myself and I appreciate all of the information and experiences shared on this site.

Jan 01, 2009
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torn pec
by: Bulldawg cop

Well,my left pec was torn in police tactics and I am nearing surgery date. Will update the board on my recovery. From reading here, it sounds long and more than a bit painful but worth the surgery.

Jan 03, 2009
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Just a quick update.
by: Nick

HAPPY NEW YEAR!
I hope everyone is doing better since last time I posted and on there way to a 100% recovery. Tuesday I have my 6 week post op appointment. The incision is about four to four and half inches from my shoulder to the top of my bicep. The pain was definitely not as bad as I had expected. I was off pain pills by the third day taking small amounts of ibuprofen to help with inflammation. I have been doing gravitational rotations and inward assisted stretching. This has helped keep my shoulder from locking up. I still feel pain where the anchors were placed and the tendons attached but it is very minimal. The Doc was unable to stretch the tendons back to their original position but he placed them as close to the original spot as he could. My chest is no longer sagging and I have a pretty big scar and so far it is definitely worth it. I am still in a sling but Lord willing I will be out of it after my appointment on Tuesday. I should start physical therapy some time this coming week. I will post more as soon as my surgeon gives me more information.

Jan 06, 2009
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Pec Tear, No Surgery
by: Raman

Hi

I had a Pec tear on my right side about 3 yrs ago. I believe it tore from the Sternal Heead area. Not sure though. Have not got any MRI done as of yet. My right bicep seems to have been pulled up very slightly. I have an indentation on the right chest. After I recovered, by laying off for a while, I have full mobility of my arm and back to the gym again. I am able to do all chest exercises with an exception of Barbell presses. At the time of Barbell presses or any Machine presses, the right tricep gets exhausted and sore. Because of this the overall right arm is about 1/4 inches more that my left arm. Dumbell presses thought do not cause so much stress on the right tricep. Now my left chest looks bigger than my right. The right side at times still looks smaller as it was before. At times it does feel sore after some heavy exercise. Even after all the chest exercises and getting pumped up, I do not feel much pump on the right side. Although I'm able to press more weights that before the injury. I am considering surgery options these days and looking up sites for info. on the same. Will it be helpful to get surgery done at such a late stage now? or are there any chest exercise that can help the right side tweak a bit. I tried one-arm (right arm) chest presses, but then the tricep also gets pumped up. so dropped it as i did not want uneven arm. Any help, advice would be appreciate.

Jan 07, 2009
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pec tear
by: pec tear victim

hi. i'm 12 weeks post op. i had complete tear from the humerus where the chest muscle inserts into the arm bone. my surgery was 4 months after the injury. according to my surgeon, my surgery was complicated due to scar tissue and because my tendon was shredded. i wore a sling for 7 weeks, and been in rehab the past month. my right side (injured side) is starting to feel normal again. i'm now able to perform daily life activities with both arms no problem. no weights yet, but definitely feel stronger than even a month ago. ROM is still not great but improving daily. forward flexion is 90%, abduction is 50% and internal and external rotation is also about 50%.i'm posting all this info so that everyone here can compare with their own progress. also, i've read plenty of posts about surgery 3 years after the injury with good results. so, if you have a complete tear, surgery is probably the best option especially if you have an active lifestyle. tendon healing is around 6 weeks, but a return to pre-injury level, or as close to it as possible is 6-12 months. at least this is the info i've been able to gather for the past 8 months. anyways, good luck to everyone awaiting surgery and to those post op.

Feb 13, 2009
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Pectoralis major tear
by: Anonymous

I got a pectoralis major torn while doing a bench press with 180kgs and immediately i visited my family physician who could not diagnose properly as he was not an orthopaedic physician.later i visited few other ortho surgeons who advised me to go for a surgery i want to resume my sports activity.It was somewhere around 35th day on which surgery was going to take place.I have gone through many articles saying surgery is the best way to regain the strength.The ortho surgeon said if the muscle gets shredded or is unsufficient then he would take muscle from the thigh.hope my surgery would be a success one and i get back to the same old position. thanx for your comments which was very helpful for me.

Mar 11, 2009
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strength back after torn pec
by: Anonymous

I tore my pec about 10 years ago when I was 20. I was benching elbows out and probably over training at the time. Worst thing was I tore the muscle belly itself not the tendon so surgery was not an option. Couldn't move my arm and was in extrutiating pain for the first month. After I was able to move my arm is when I started rehab. I couldn't even bench a broomstick for the next 3 months. Started with wall push ups, then knee push ups, then finally worked my way up to benching just the bar. It took a full year to bench 135 again. It was horrible time for me, but I did a lot of shoulder exercises and stretching to regain my strength. It took me a good 3 years to feel comfortable under heavy weight benching again. I regained about 98% of my strength back, but I did a lot shoulder work, high rep chest work, tons of push ups and a lot of stretching.

Apr 06, 2009
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pec tear one year later
by: littlemike

Hello. I tore my peck on April 1 2008 (appropriate day), bench pressing relatively heavy. I warmed up as usual .. 2 x 12 - 15 135, 1 x 12 225, 1 x 6 315, then went to 375 to attempt 6. The week prior I did it 4 reps no spot no lift off, but this time I wanted a lift off, to try and squeeze out 6 reps. On the first rep, it was a horrible shocking sensation in my right pec near my armpit, I yelled and they got the weight off; luckily I had the spot, otherwise I could have dropped on my neck, or who knows - God looks out for idiots I guess.
It bruised bad under my arm and down my bicep. I went to my GP the next day, he referred me to an ortho. He said it wasn't a total detachment and surgery would only be for cosmetic purposes, and I should get full use of it in time.
I didn't do any chest exercise at all for about 6 months, even then the bar was too much, just some no weight limited range pec decks. I worked my way back to 225 for 8 - 10 reps, no pain, just a weird feeling like there's something missing. no really measurable weakness compared to the other side, just remember the horror of the pain, and scared to get under any real weight. i have done 315 2 different times since for 2 reps each, could have done maybe 4, but too scared. there's a little symmetry difference, and in a shirt it looks a little droopy, kinda like Phil mickelson wearing a golf shirt with out a bra, and I can't stand it. I used to compete in bodybuilding, and at the time I was about 240 and 7% bodyfat, so the cosmetic aspect bothers me, since I've worked at this for 25 plus years. It looks okay from the front if I'm not flexing, but if I flex, or turn to the side, the gap is noticable on the lower pec near my armpit. Looks bad to me. I wonder if it's too late for surgery to repair, even if I wanted to go through with it, and layoff the gym for that long. In 25 years I haven't missed more than 2 consecutive weeks in the gym, so I'd likely want to shoot myself.
Anyone with experience or advice as to the option of even having surgery at this point would be greatly appreciated.

Apr 06, 2009
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pec tear
by: Anonymous

hi little mike im graeme i started this thread
i had a repair yes im happy i had it done but the lay off from the gym will almost kill you
no immobilisation sling for 6-8 weeks the muscle then a very slow process after the sling comes off ( wastage is massive). im about 10 month post surgery slowly the pec is starting to streatch back out now and slowly starting to fillout back up tp about 100 kg bench press when i did the tear (i was benching 170 kg)
you have got to understand its a slow process not like other injuries it wil be painfull and take the best part of a year - a year and a half
to repair or not to thats up to you theres been other people how have had late repairs and had good results???
good luck

Apr 07, 2009
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4 Months later
by: Nick

It has been 4 months since I had Pec Major Repair. I had to have both tendons re-attached because I had completely torn both off of the bone. I have been experiencing more pain in my rotator cuff and elbow more than anything else lately. So far I am up to 42 push ups, 5 to 10 pull ups and 10 to 15 chin ups (depending on the day). I have full range of motion but I am still feeling pain in the joint. I see the surgeon for my 5 month appointment on the 17th. I admit that I felt more pain during my first two weeks of physical therapy than I did from the surgery. Ibuprofen was basically all I needed after day 2 post surgery but those first two weeks of physical therapy were rough. They had to rub on the incision to break up the scar tissue and loosen up the muscles from being in the sling. It especially hurts when they rub on my shoulder where the anchors were placed in the bone. I have a 4 1/2 inch scar from my shoulder to my bicep that was thin until they started rubbing on it. Make sure you do exactly as your surgeon and physical therapist instructs and you will recover like I have. Drink water, stay hydrated and take protein if you don't mind using supplements. It is taking me some time but in time I believe with God's help that I will be back to 100% if not better.

Apr 09, 2009
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Pectoralis Major Tear
by: Shawn

I want to say thanks for starting this site. Great information. I have just started surfing for information and your site has been most helpful. I have torn my pecktoralis major muscle from the humerus bone a few weeks ago and just received my results from the MRI ( 4 cm separation) and have to decide if I should go for surgery or not. It feels good now, but limited strength of course. I’m a commercial diver so my job involves a lot of pulling on chain hoist/ comalongs, hanging from one arm and lifting with the other. After reading the post I think it has changed my mind into getting the surgery and putting up with the 6 weeks recovery time. Anyone’s thoughts?

Apr 10, 2009
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pec tear
by: Anonymous

6 weeks lol try 3 months and still not much lifting

Apr 10, 2009
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pec tear
by: Anonymous

6 weeks lol try 3 months and still not much lifting

Apr 10, 2009
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Over 4 Months
by: Nick

I have to admit that I am not at 100% over 4 months after surgery but today I did 10 controlled pull ups all the way up and all the way down with straight at Physical Therapy. There is still pain but I think that will be the norm for a while because of the two anchors in the bone. I probably won't go back to lifting heavy weights (Heavy for me at least). I'm in the military so lifting heavy isn't really a requirement. I can live with bowflex, rubber bands, push ups, sit ups, pull ups and running. The heavy weights are great for those that use them but I don't have the build for that. I will keep everyone posted as I continue to progress. I hope everyone has a Happy Resurrection Day/ Happy Easter and speedy recoveries.

Apr 22, 2009
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pec tear
by: joelp

on the 20/04 i was on bench pressing 160 kg when i heard a tearing noise got the weight up and headed to the hospital, i knew something was wrong. they told me it was a partial pec tear and would heal on its own, so on the 21st i decided to get a mri done. This showed that i had completly torn my pectoralis major on my right shoulder. Same day i went to sport med to see what my options were they told me that without surgery my pec would drop and have a visable defection, or surgery could fix the problem but was like sowing two pieces of meat together if it was off the bone would have been better. my op is booked in for the 27th i have been on every site researching my options i just hope that it all goes well and i feel for everyone that this has happened to, but no one can change fate so we have to deal with it. its abit of an emotional rollacoaster being angry and sad picturing how long recovery will take but that is the most inportant part, for anyone goin through this ill let you's know how surgery went..

Apr 30, 2009
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Going in to Surgery
by: SixtyFive

I have to say, I like most people that have commented on this page, have spent a lot of time on the internet researching the pec tear and the surgery. Six months ago I tore my pec wakeboarding. Had sharp pain and severe swelling and bruising. I intially went to my PA and he referred me to a physical therapist (basically he just assumed muscle tear) The PT Doc said it was a torn pec but tendon was ok and that I would be able to get most all my strength back and just a little deformation. After about 5 months, I got a lot of strength back, but just knew something was wrong in there. I was finally able to see an Ortho Surgeon and he said it was a complete tendon tear and I'm going in to surgery on the 13th of May. The surgeon told me that it may not be repairable this late in the game but I have to try. Thank you to all that have posted, I know we can all relate to such a life changing event. Best of luck all...

May 05, 2009
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surgery
by: Shawn

I had surgery 1.5 weeks ago. Last week the doctor took out half of the twenty staples. I’ll get the others out later this week. Surgery went well, but there was a lot of tension to pull the muscle back, the doctor had to move the arm across my chest and sew the torn peck to the arm, as there was to much tension to pull it over. I had planed on driving home after the surgery, but instead woke up 8 hrs later connected to an IV and morphine drip. I was able to leave the hospital 9 hrs later, and got off the pain pills 1.5 days later. Still taking the Tylenol/ asa but that is all.
The hardest thing so far is not moving the arm. After the first 5 days you want to, but remind your self it will not heal to the bone if you do. I’m looking into starting some hyperbaric treatments in week 2 or 3 to speed up the healing process.
Hope it helps anyone going through the same thing.

Jun 05, 2009
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3 weeks out
by: Sixetyfive

I am 3 weeks fro having surgery, and thanful the surgeon was able to make the repair. I was at about the 7 month mark from injury to surgery. I'm still in a sling, pain hasn't been too bad, and stiches have already come out. I should start physical therapy at the beginning of July and we'll see how that goes. Thanks to all those posting!

Jun 17, 2009
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torn pec. tendon
by: stupid

surgery for my pec. tear is scheduled for tuesday. sooo glad i got a 2nd opinion on this since the 2nd doc. says not to cut me at the top of my armpit but at the top of my bisep where the tear is. i guess i should feel lucky since i don't have any major muscle tissue tear, the tear was simply my tendon pulling away from my humerous when bench pressing. this caused extensive bleeding which went down by arm and it looked like my arm was severely bruised, which wasn't the case at all. they are going to secure the tendon using anchors and then my tendon will eventually re-attach itself back to the bone along with having this anchor support. i should have a complete restoration of my strength in this shoulder since , again, no muscle tear, tendon tear which doc says heals better than muscle and will naturally grow back onto the bone. i'm not sure if i'll get back to lifting heavy on the bench again but this is a humbling experience that i plan not to repeat. i'll slowly work my way back into benching 225 lbs and see where my training leads me...hope this info. helps anyone else who is going thru this. fyi, never go with just one doc's opinion, talk to at least two and make sure the guys not going to do exploratory surgery. Have a doc who reads the MRI correctly and go from there, if you have any questions or doubts then go for a 3rd. This is something you don't play with... never ever bench without a good spotter and never collar your weight on the bench press...

Jun 22, 2009
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two stupids = an injury
by: Anonymous

Benching 365 and had some idiot spotting me,I should have known better. I am the other idiot who was stupid enought to max out on a day I was totally worn out.Anyway I started the lift and I am about 1/4 to 1/3 of the way up and I can't get any further and the bar stops and my spotter just stood there watching me struggle until I wore out and the bar started to come back down which is of course when my pec tore,then he tried lifting the weight hollering that he couldn't lift it, all the while he is in the way so I could not attempt to upend the bar without risk of hurting him in the process finally 3 guys came running over and got the bar off me.Then I went to Kaiser where they told me I was fine even though I was black and blue all down my arm and my pec muscle was hanging to the center of my chest and the only reason I would want surgery would be for cosmetic reasons I would be ok in 7 to 8 weeks. 8 weeks later I wasn't better so I went in and a different person told me I would forever have weakness in my injured side unless I got surgery and why did I wait so long?upshot? I ended getting surgery.The surgeon misdiagnosed my MRI as tendon off the bone. It turned out the muscle had torn away from the tendon.I was suppose to wear a sling for 6weeks but only used it for 2 1/2 weeks as I had to return to work and did not want the boss to know I was hurt. I am 2months post surgery and am getting fairly good ROM back and some strength but am being cautious as I can feel where they anchored it whenever I move it around much.I never took any of the painpills just iced it whenever it started hurting which was a bit the first day postop.never really started working heavy on the bench until after I had to stop olympic lifting due to an ACL injury.I use to make fun of guys who used to try and see how much weight they could bench.I guese the jokes on me now.wish I had gotten my ACL repaired and never started benching heavy.one thing for sure I will never again use so much weight in a lift that I need someboby to spot me again, ever.

Jun 23, 2009
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Torn Pec
by: Kimo

Tore my pec muscle on 12 June 09. Of all things surfing down in Waikiki. The sad part is I have a pretty good bench press right around 385 for a solid single.

Had an MRI done on the 18th of June 09. Thought it was just a bad sprain in that area. The tech in the office did see some damage, but she stated the doctor would have to give the officially answer.

Still have a lot of pain in the chest area, swelling, and bruising. Depending on the severity of the tear it may require surgery. If it doesn't require surgery rest and treatment with ice and heat should do the job within 4 to 6 weeks.

I confirmed my appointment yesterday with the "Straub Bone & Joint Clinic" for Thursday the 25th of June at 1230hrs. I'll be seeing Dr Walden one of the best orthopedic doctors on the island. I spoke with the nurse yesterday she stated Dr. Walden reviewed my MRI and "Believes" I'll require surgery to re-attach part of the sternal muscle and clavicle pec major.

When I go in on Thursday the doc wants to do a mobility check on my shoulder, arm, and chest. Guess he'll be verifying range of motion in these areas.

If surgery is recommended it'll be done within the month. With this type of injury surgery should be completed within 30 to 60 days. Guess the body attempts to heal itself in all the wrong places.

Jun 23, 2009
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Torn Pec 12 June 09
by: Kimo

Tore my pec muscle on 12 June 09. Of all things surfing down in Waikiki. The sad part is I have a pretty good bench press right around 385 for a solid single.

Had an MRI done on the 18th of June 09. Thought it was just a bad sprain in that area. The tech in the office did see some damage, but she stated the doctor would have to give the officially answer.

Still have a lot of pain in the chest area, swelling, and bruising. Depending on the severity of the tear it may require surgery. If it doesn't require surgery rest and treatment with ice and heat should do the job within 4 to 6 weeks.

I confirmed my appointment yesterday with the "Straub Bone & Joint Clinic" for Thursday the 25th of June at 1230hrs. I'll be seeing Dr Walden one of the best orthopedic doctors on the island. I spoke with the nurse yesterday she stated Dr. Walden reviewed my MRI and "Believes" I'll require surgery to re-attach part of the sternal muscle and clavicle pec major.

When I go in on Thursday the doc wants to do a mobility check on my shoulder, arm, and chest. Guess he'll be verifying range of motion in these areas.

If surgery is recommended it'll be done within the month. With this type of injury surgery should be completed within 30 to 60 days. Guess the body attempts to heal itself in all the wrong places.

Jun 24, 2009
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Total rupture left pectoralis major
by: slyman

hello,
i ruptured my left pec major on 4-12-09. i had my surgery on 6-23-09. the ligament has been attached to the humerus and the muscle sutured. the surgeon explained the muscle was tucked in and he had to extend the pec to the original location with great difficulty. the delay for surgery was with the x2 mri approvals with my insurance. i was benching 315 x5 reps. have been benching for x20 years. the injury actually occured during a sparing session. this is my third sports injury in 20 years. according to my research, surgery is the best option if you desire to lift weights. i am also in the medical field so i received unbiased opinions.

sly

Aug 13, 2009
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total detachment from shoulder
by: scott

Tore my chest about 3 years ago.

I have no strength on the left side where the tear is and it is droopy. Looks freaky when I flex.

Was planning to just live with it but it really is a problem. It is always sore and has sharp pains whenever I try to use it.

Can surgery still be done at this point. If so can anyone recommend a surgeon in the Southern California area.

Thanks,
scott

Aug 31, 2009
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my pec/tendon
by: Anonymous

I tore my pec/tendon in may. Im extremely nervous because I think I may have re tore it. I feel no pain at all and was wondering if its possible for no pain or bruising but a slight deformation. All I have been doing is therapy. It looks like my tendon just under my arm pit is compensating especially when I push my palms together but I have no pain and I have full rotation. But still very nervous especially because my job is physically demanding

Dec 26, 2009
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Torn Decision
by: KEVIN

I was a competitive bodybuilder in the early 90's
have bench pressed for many years. I have had 3-4 times where I would be benching & would experence severe pain in my left pec. Always had a spotter & had them remove the bar.Never had any discoloration etc.. but could not bench for aprox.6 weeks after such.Never had problems with dumbells! While frustrating & a bit uncomfortable just chalked it up to a minor tear.Then nearly a year ago & @ 48 years old while training my son for football & convinced to get back to an over 400lb bench."never stopped working out just not as heavy as i once had" I while pressing 300lbs felt an enormous pain & an imediate muscle twitch & an increadable & imediate hole in my pec. My son pulled the weight off of me & I knew that this time it was much more severe than in the past! I called my Doc.but was traveling out of the country the next morning so he just got me some Loratab for the trip.My pec,bicep etc was very swollen & turned black & blue.by the time we got back the pain had subsided & I had decent motion so I didnt go back to him. Then about 6 months ago & with a very noticable hole in my pec. I saw a local specialist who diagnosed it as a tear."my family Doc never did an MRI or anything as they said they didnt know how to go about it since it was so close to the heart??" The specialist he recomended me to didnt ask for one either? His recomendation was to live with it if it was not bothering me to much & I didn't mind the look.& that it would be very hard to fix since I had waited so long. I do have pretty good range can do altered push-ups but have what seems to be getting worse sagging & weird looking pec.
I can feel the weakness in just lifting normal things around the house.When flexing the chest the hole is very pronounced! Now I can't decide what to do? I hate the look I hate the weakness I feel. Any words of advice? It sounds like from reading the posts I should get an MRI? I assume it will continue to get worse? HELP??

Dec 30, 2009
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reinjured
by: anthony c

tore my left pec a year ago working out after mri dr told me that surgery would not be a option it wood be like sewing spaggettie together ihave now tore it again i can see the dimple in my chest when i flex the muscle and have lost 50 percent of my stregth i am going for my next mri this week and am thinking that surguery is my only way to repair this for good am nervous about the whole scenerio but i have to do it and thats that so i would appreciate any response a to who is the best dr in north new jersey for this type of surgury

Dec 30, 2009
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Feb 15, 2010
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Torn Pec
by: AFWR

Almost three weeks ago I partially torn my right pec while doing ji-jitsu. I have surgery tomorrow. I'm in the military and 3 surgeons looked at the MRI, yet still not sure exactly where the tear is, they think it from the bone. I have selling in my pec, my right bicep bruised but not like most tears and by armpit lost definition. Hopefully everything goes well and I can get back to my activities. Good luck on everyone's recoveries I hope you get back to your activities that you enjoy.

Mar 02, 2010
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torn pec?
by: Hector

I wish I could post a picture. So about two weeks ago I was training Braizlian Jiu Jitsu and I felt this werid pain/sensation. It all happened so fast I can't even recall exactly what I was doing. It felt like my should came out of the socket but, after laying there for about 2 minutes I was able to move my arm. I had a hard time changing and driving home. When I woke up in the morning I had major swelling from my arm pit to the bottom of my elbow. I went to see a friend of mine who is Chrio not an ortho and he guessed it was a torn pec. Currently the brusing has gone away I feel that I have all of my range of motion. The only thing that I can't do is push ups? I've tried curling some weight and stretching and there's really no pain. On a scale of 1-10 I would say 1-1.5. Is it possible that maybe I strained it really bad? Should I still go see a doctor? The reason I haven't gone is the lack oh health insurance.

Mar 02, 2010
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Mar 08, 2010
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Torn Pec
by: Anonymous

Im in you same situation Hector I think I tore my Pec or the tendon myself. The injury happend this Valentines day but my insurance deductable is so high I have to pay for the visit out of my pocket so Im saving the money so aspecialist can have a look at it.

Mar 13, 2010
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Pec Major Tendon Tear
by: Apl

I just came across this site and it has been very helpful. Anyway 3 weeks ago I tore my Pec Major (full tear) and had surgery 1 week later. Like most, I did it bench pressing. I noticed most of the injuries on this page are pec detachment from the humeris. My tendon tore in half leaving it attached at the insertion part. It was reattached and pulled back. My surgeon said the surgery went well and i should be fine. Does anyone know if tendon sewn to tendon is as strong as anchoring the tendon to the bone? I am an active guy(mma,pro arm wrestler and weight lifter) and want to get back to the level that I was at. I go to have the staples taken out this tues. and the scar is about 4.5 inches long from shoulder to top of bicep. its not to bad. Thanks !!!!! hope everyone gets well...

Apr 01, 2010
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Hockey Fight
by: Patrick

My injury started 6 months ago. I was in a hockey fight and immediately after i had a sharp main that felt like my chest was in my armpit. I continued to play, and a week later got in another fight. This time i felt the pain as soon as i threw a left. The next morning i woke up to a purple arm. I could move it, but it hurt. I went to physio for a month, which didnt do much, so i went to a chirpracter using ACTIVE RELEASE TECHNIQUES which has worked pretty well. My chest is just now starting to take its normal form and i hope to be back at the gym in a month from now.

Apr 25, 2010
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Surgeon in the UK
by: Jonny

Hey guys, awesome information.
Quick question, I tore my pec, but am not convinced by what the NHS doctor said. I need a second opinion. Does anyone know of a good surgeon or clinic in the UK, preferably around London?
Thanks in advance.

May 05, 2010
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believe i tore the major tendon
by: Anonymous

just got home from the gym, something definetly happened but no bruising and still have almost complete movement of my arm. Moderate pain and my left pec is swolen. It looks to be drooping a little if there is no bruising i assume that is good. we'll see in the morning.

May 09, 2010
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Complete Tear
by: Anonymous

I had a complete tear of my left pec on Feb. 28, 2009. I was 46 at the time. I am by no means a power lifter and had only 225 lbs. on the bench.
It was a weight I could do about 6-8 times. I felt good, and on the second rep, I felt this tremendous jolt and the bar crashed onto my chest. Thankfully I had a spotter who jerked it off me. Yes, I had the dark bruising, and the swelling. Six days later, I had surgery. I was in a sling for 4 weeks, rehab for almost 5 months. Oh, and the rehab pain is worse than the injury pain!
This is a devastating injury as it affects the whole side of your body, chest, shoulder, arm, back. I have been lifting for months now, and while I originally tried to get back under the bar to bench,(getting up to 115 lbs.) I cannot get over the fear of retearing it. So I gave up the flat bench and ONLY do hammer strength, and machines. I am 48 now, not nearly as strong as before, but lean, and my chest looks pretty good.
All things considered, I feel great, and the injury got me to focus on what is really more important (especially at my age) and that's cardio. Good luck to all others who have to go
thru this.

Jul 01, 2010
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Recovery
by: Anonymous

I have a tear of the pectoralis major. It is a complete tear of the tendon. Im very active personally and my job requires alot of activity as well. I am 30 days post injury and meet with the surgeon next week. I can swim, run, do some pullups, 10-12 with minor pain and minimal pushups. But every other exercise I can do except heavy or multiple rep chest related ones.

My question is can I have some sort of active recovery treatment or will I need to be totally free of any activity and for how long. Thank you

Jul 12, 2010
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ajor partial tear at the Musculotendinous joint
by: Sanjeev, India

I had my surgery performed for the partial tear on my left & am into the end of 1st week. The torn end was 'anchored' to the humerus with three screws & had agonising 2 post surgery days. However, dr is positive about the surgery & asked for 3 weeks on shoulder immoblisation with allowable movements for the forearm & biceps for some home exercises. This has allowed me great relief & can sleep.
I have a different take on the surgery as mentioned in the previous threads. 6 weeks of immobilisation spells doom for the whole hand. Our bodies are tough. With small discreet movements you can keep your joints & blood flowing. Only isolating the lateral movement of the shoulder will be good enough. Also, by flexing the arm muscles in position & holding (isometrics) we can keep them in good standby shape. For shoulder (deltoids), you can pretend the sideways flex (5-10deg) with with your other hand gripping around the elbow. All of it 5 to 10 minutes a day. We all know, good blood circulation heals much faster. CAUTION: watchout for hint of strain & limit your movement.
Once healed & pain (without meds) is absolutely gone (4 to 6 weeks), we can follow free hand movements steadily over the weeks & gradually shift to weight training. Good luck

Jul 27, 2010
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pec tear options?
by: Anonymous

Hi. I have a torn pec muscle. I went to 2 surgeons and they both told me the same thing. They said surgery would not help because the muscle tore away from the tendon, rather than the tendon tearing from the bone. It has been 5 months and I am still experiencing pain...I cannot even do a single push-up. Can you suggest any options for treatment? Can surgery help my type of pec tear? Thank you.

Aug 09, 2010
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Partial Pec-tear from musculotendinous joint
by: Sanjeev, India

Hi! The surgeon in my case did not refused the surgery in my case. However, my management had this three anchors on my humerus & the muscle tied to those. Only difference I see compared to the onsite surgery sites, my surgery zone has a huge incision forming a big-U. Dr is quite positive. Today is start of sixth week & recovery seems considerably encouraging. I am doing bicep-curls, shoulder flys, tricep strectches and some improvisation in betwen. I have almost achieved 90% full-range motion (with some strain on the zone but bearable)
Your inability to perform a single push-up calls for surgery as soon as possible. Muscle atrophy or scarring would be more complex to manage later on.
Good luck!Keep posting.

Aug 14, 2010
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Time for the cut
by: Yep Surgery

Hello All - I must say this site has been a source of some great information as I move forward to have my Pec Muscle Tendon screwed back to my humerous. I am very apprehensive about this surgery not much for the pain but the time off it will give me from my job which can be very physical at times.

I'm hopeful to get into therapy as soon as the Doc gives the OK...

What is the soonest someone started PT after surgery?

What is the earliest someone felt 85-90%, meaning they were comfortable back in the gym or performing physical activities?

Any advice on what to do to speed up the recovery process?

Many, many thanks for the info on here it has been alot of help!

Aug 18, 2010
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pec healing without surgery
by: bnote

Hello all glad to find this page with lots of info. I was benching 275 last monday aug 9 for some low rep sets. Then i went back to 225 for a set of 6. I figured id go for a set of 5 or 6 more and i brought the bar down to my chest, then as i pushed back up i hear the tearing sound almost like a rag tearing from my left pec. I rested the bar back on my chest and told my spotter to lift it off. With in 30 sec my pec doubled in size and i could barely move my arm. Went to the doc the same day and he said youve torn your pec you just need rest. This is day 9 since the injury and i can move my arms around with no pain what so ever. My chest is a lil swollen still near the arm pit and the bicep, which is green and purple with bruises. The bruising is going away and there is just a little bit of pain its the region. Does anyone think a MRI is recommended still or will this heal on its own? Everything looks the same except for where your pec attaches into your shoulder looks almost like there is something missing or its not as thick as it use to be.

Aug 18, 2010
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Aug 24, 2010
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Oh! it is my story!
by: Sanjeev

Dear, You have clearly rutured your Pectoralis Major. I too had exactly the same weight & experience. You will notice a very significant loss of axillary-fold of the affected chest. Standing with your arms tucked to your sides & contract your chest. There you will see a significant loss of arc joining your shoulder.
MRI is important to know the type of tear;
type 1: Tear of tendon from the humerus bone joint (Very effective repair (surgery) & recovery psossible)
type 2: From the muscle-tendon (musculo-tendinous joint). Difficult to repair & recover. But possible. (I am in the 8th week post surgery & doing well
You are now into the 3rd week. You should straight away go for surgery without wasting anymore time. See this website & threads for updating. I am 'sanmohan' as user.http://forums.musculardevelopment.com/showthread.php?t=57540

Aug 24, 2010
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This reply for "yep Surgery"
by: Sanjeev

Hi! The 90% range of motion means you can move it with little extra effort & without weights. It may take anywhere between 6 to 18 months before you can hit the gym & be normal. Ofcourse depending on the type of injury & post-surgery management diet, physiotherapy & your spirit)
Good luck!

Aug 25, 2010
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Post Surgery Diet ?
by: Anonymous

Any recommendations for a post surgery diet? Want to eat what is best for recovery. Proteins, etc?

Thanks again for your help!

Aug 28, 2010
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Post-surgery diet!
by: Sanjeev

There is no such diet which allows speedy recovery. You need to take balanced diet & healthy lifestyle all the way to recover & improve fitness. Less activity & high protein do not help.
Good luck

Aug 28, 2010
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Post-Surgery recovery
by: Sanjeev

..to add to my threads,I would share some recent experiences.
1. By the end of 6th week, it is safe & fair to start the physiotherapy and repeat twice a day. If you end to skip these stretching regime, you may experience stiffness & stress in the repaired muscle & skin as well.
2. Side-ways, over the head movements, gradually, will be encouraging. However, the moment you lie onto the bench-press position, your free hand will also indicate strain. But you need to continue prescribed regime slowly & with delibrate slow movements mimicking heavy weights.
3. Morning stiffness can be overcome by holding the 'stretch' for extended seconds (As in Yoga).
4. Last but not the least. Follow your instincts & improvise to gain that extra bit of effort to recover faster than your doctor predicted.

Aug 28, 2010
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Post-Surgery recovery
by: Sanjeev

..to add to my threads,I would share some recent experiences.
1. By the end of 6th week, it is safe & fair to start the physiotherapy and repeat twice a day. If you tend to skip these stretching regime, you may experience stiffness & stress in the repaired muscle & skin as well.
2. Side-ways, over the head movements, gradually, will be encouraging. However, the moment you lie onto the bench-press position, your free hand will also indicate strain. But you need to continue prescribed regime slowly & with delibrate slow movements mimicking heavy weights.
3. Morning stiffness can be overcome by holding the 'stretch' for extended seconds (As in Yoga).
4. Last but not the least. Follow your instincts & improvise to gain that extra bit of effort to recover faster than your doctor predicted.

Oct 03, 2010
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Pec torn restraining prisoner
by: Injured Pete

While bear hugging a prisoner, my chest was fully contracted when he dropped to the ground. The fire/crammping on the right side of my chest was unimaginable. I was taken to a local ER where I was x-rayed, given pain killer. Within days I had intense bruising from my inner/upper arm down the side of my right chest. I had absolutely no strength, when right chest placed under load crammping again insued. I was sent to a orthopedic surgeon who stated my injury could not be surgically corrected. It would be like suturing pieces of jello together. I went to a physical medicine doctor who ordered an MRI. It was confirmed the muscle tore from the tendon, not the bone. He in turn sent me to another orthopedic surgeon who treats U of M athletes. He stated there do exist techniques to try and fix this type injury but inevitably fail. He stated sometimes the tear heals with connective tissue in the tear strengthening the involved area or may just atrophy. My question is why can't the damaged area be injected with a sclerosing (burning) agent (like used to burn unwanted veins by plastic surgeons) to artificially form connective tissue? It's been 5 years and my benchpress has dropped from 365lbs x 6 reps to 185lbs until cramping stops chest repetitions.
Q] Is a sclerosing agent ever been considered to assist healing, mechanical strength of a torn muscle?

Nov 12, 2010
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bjj ruins lives
by: ja

Was at the worlds for jiujitsu. Got caught in an arm bar.. short story tore my peck. Was told it was just a sprain by a couple douches that were supposedly sports med guys on site. told me I would be fine in a couple weeks. I had absolutuley no strenth in the fly motion, Bicep was black from bruising. And the most distinct feature was my peck was now a saggy bitch tit( That was Dr. Harrisons diagnosis) It didnt look like it was going to magically heal in the few weeks I was told.. Went Ortho.. MRI.. The tendon completely severed from the bone!.. People!! listen to your bodies! I read so many horror stories of people ignoring shit and paying for it.. Med bills are temp. The physical weakness and regret will haunt forever. Especially since these injuries are normally accrued by active people.The Ortho surgeon told me after a major pec tear you have 7-10 days to get surgery for a smoother and successful recovery. Otherwise too much scarred tissue can prolong recovery or even deter the procedure from being done. Goin in for surgey this Monday which would be 11-15-10. I will update the process. This has been the most informative site I have found.. The fight goes on.

Dec 17, 2010
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after surgery still no fix
by: chris

I am 24 yrs old I tore my left pec when I was 19 due to over training and improper form lifting 450lbs. I visited my family doctor immediately and was told that it was minor, I guess due to swelling. The next 6 months I rehab myself and worked my way from not being able to lift my arm to benching 225 20 or so times. Unfortunately after a a year or so the pain was still there everytime i lifted heavy. Soooo i went to a orthopedic surgeon instantly after looking he diagnosed it as a complete tear... I had surgery and was awoken with a huge ugly scar and the doctor standing over me telling me he did everything he could but just couldnt re attach it... I am currently weighing 260 lbs incline 405 last set 8 times.... my dream is to compete in bodybuilding one day but just would love to have my chest fixed before... Its been years and Im sure i didnt help the situation bc I never let up on the lifting... But if possible would love to undergo a successful surgery...

Dec 29, 2010
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torn pecs
by: Lou

I just tore my pec for the second time. I now have 2 torn pecs on the left and right side. You never know what you have until its gone. I use to be super strong until i tore my left pec, then i tried to get strong again and tore the other one. I have lost 50% of my whole body strength. I am a mere shell of the man i use to be. I have lost everything including my job and all my money because of this. I will be ending my pain and suffering soon

Jan 03, 2011
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Lou needs help!!!
by: John

Lou,
The last comment you made is very disturbing. Let me know if there is anything I can do to help. I tore my pec back in March 2010 and had it repaired in July. I'm a little over 5 months post op and improving, but not as fast as most. I know how terrible this injury is and I think there is always hope. get back on the site and lets see if there is anything we can do to help.
John Z

Jan 03, 2011
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Jan 08, 2011
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alone with misery
by: Lou

No one can help me. I have no real friends, people were only friends with me because i had money and was strong. Now since i have lost everything because of these injuries people ignore me. Since i lost everything i now live alone in my moms basement wallowing in my own misery day in, day out. I found my first weight set when i was a young boy eager to start lifting, it brought back many good memories especially of my dad who died many years ago. I think about how nice it would be to see him again

Jan 19, 2011
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pushing it??
by: dentguy

I am a dental student just months from graduating. In mid december I was benching 300 and on my second rep I heard and felt the distinctive pec tear. It was super painful and I'm lucky I had one of my best friends spotting me. surgery was january fifth and I am going on my third week post op and in my immobilization sling still. I was off of my pain medication by three days and now taking once a day ibuprofen for mild pain and inflammation. I am trying to get back to treating my patients as soon as possible so that I can graduate. I was able to get my doc to ok me to start seeing patients again three weeks post op as long as my range of motion was limited and i did no load bearing of any kind. I am wondering if this is enough heal time or if I will most likely re-tear the pec for not giving it sufficient time to heal. any thoughts?

Jan 20, 2011
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pec major complete rupture tendon from humerous.
by: mac4193

Great site. I am police officer and Dec 27th tackled guy in chase. As soon as we hit the ground It was obvious something bad happened. Wasnt able to get MRI for 9 days because of swelling and so much bleeding. MRI showed complete tear from humerous. Dr. said surgery had to be done immediately for success. Had surgery January 7th. Surgery was success, 4 screws put in. First week sucks.... Cant get used to sleeping with sling Im at end of second week and get staples out tomorrow. 3 inch scar , 11 staples. Havent been able to sleep at all in second week. 11 hours in 7 days. Good Luck to all.

Feb 06, 2011
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Improving
by: Anonymous

Just an update from my last post. I am now a little over 4 weeks post op. I was taken out of the sling Friday which was exactly 4 weeks post op. I was told to do range of motion exercises now and start rehab on Monday Feb 7. FYI I started doing the eliptical at about week 2 post op. I think this really helped because I slowly started moving my arm and shoulder and it seemed to loosen up and help with the range of motion. This weekend I started doing some bands and feel my range of motion is so much farther than it should be. I feel its because of the eliptical and not letting it tighten up obviously being smart and not going to far. I am going to get back to 100 percent and thats the advice that I would like to give. Think Positive and push yourself(Once given the OK) and dont fall into negativity. The injury sucks, but we control the rehab.. Nobody is gonna do it for us, so tell yourself your gonna beat this and you will.. Dont give up, even though it feels like the road is to long. I will beat this and you will too..

Feb 15, 2011
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late operation
by: Alex P

Hi Chaps
I was fobbed off by a GP about 4 years ago saying "some asymmetry perfectly normal". Its fairly obvious that i have a full rupture of the sternal component of the pectoral. Is operation at this stage even a possibility or should i just accept my new limits?
Cheers
Alex

Feb 15, 2011
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Left Pec and Tendon Tear
by: Mikey

I had a left pectoral tendon tear in June 09, I was doing bar flat bench heavy and jerked my last rep and heard the snap, over the next 5 weeks of Dr visits, MRI and diagnosis of, Left complete pectoralis major tear and partial tendon tear I decided to have surgery because I would rather have a scar than deformity. The procedure performed was; Left pec tendon repair with Achilles allograft. After surgery it hurt 10 times worse, I spent 6 weeks in a sling and then 5 months in rehab. I am a month out of rehab, 7 months since surgery and do back, chest and shoulders on 3 seperate days a week. I am scared to push myself due to fear of tearing and going through that again. I have been discouraged because there is a big gap between my left armpit and when I do a most lifting, you can see the tendon like the webbing between your thumb and finger stick out. I am scared to go heavy. What I mean by heavy is I am scared to go over 100 lbs on chest and Ive been able to do that for 3 months. Also scred to do a pullup without weight under me. My question to anyone is will the muscle ever grow back over the tendon? As long as I can see this stick out when I do chest, I dont think I will ever go heavy again. The Dr said there is a possibility it will fill in and I shouldn't worry about it. Anyone recovered from this type of surgery and saw the left pec grow back toward the bicept?

Feb 23, 2011
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Complete Type 1 Tear; 3 Years Ago; No Surgery
by: Anonymous

I experienced a complete rupture (MRI confirmed - Type 1) about 3 years ago. I opted against surgery after multiple consultations with two excellent sports med physicians (one is the lead doc for a major D1 football team; the other is a senior fellow at a very well-respected teaching hospital and has trained numerous Olympic weighlifters). Both of these docs ultimately advised against surgery - because, for me, it is unnecessary.

I also spoke with two ortho surgeons, one of whom is a close personal friend and both of whom were quite confident that my surgery would be successful. Surgeons want to do surgery; that's what they do. I understand that, and that's fine, but it's not always the best treatment option (even when the liklihood of a "successful surgery is very high").

I was 33 at the time and was very physically active. Now I'm 3 years older and just as, if not more, active. But, I am not a lineman on a professional football team (who needs to push huge amounts of weight with his chest) or a bodybuilder (who needs to be perfectly symmetrical). I train 4 times per week, play competitive sports, and (after the acute stage had passed and I got back to training) have never experienced any significant limitation as a result of this injury.

Three years out, I'm happy I opted against surgery. I'm weaker (275 max bench; 350 pre-injury) and my chest is mildly deformed (when I flex I have a "divot" below my shoulder and the "fold" is gone) - but, really, who cares?

Mar 25, 2011
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Response to Mikey
by: Jake

I had the same thing happen to me Mikey. As long as you train properly yes the muscle will fill in over time and you should be able to return to full strength. I tore my pec as you did and with proper training and learning proper benching technique I actually became stronger than I was before the injury. However this did not happen over night and took over a year of hard training. Dose up on the protein powder, fish oil, and do a ton of stretching after each workout.

Apr 01, 2011
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California Doctors
by: JS

Was wondering if anyone could recommend a good surgeon for a pec major tear in Northern California. I just tore it last week and want to get in as soon as possible. I have Kaiser insurance so a Kaiser Ortho would be preferred if anyone knows of any. Thank you.

Apr 03, 2011
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Left and right pectoral tear
by: Anonymous

Hello guys reading all your responses made me feel alittle better, I have a completely shredded left pec that has been unattended to for almost 5 years now, and I luckily just torn my right pec 3/4 of the way off almost completely. My left is torn in half and right is torn off the bone. I'm really twisted right now cause I have no idea what to do anymore.

Anyway I am here because I need a surgen that is more then reputable. I have been all over to more doctors then I can count. Non strike me as good enough to do surgery on me. I need a specialist who had done countless chest surgeries. Can you guys please help me out??

I'm down and out and I need a real professionals honest opinion.

Anyone who feels they have the right doctor for me please email me their name to tmango1415@verizon.net

Btw I have UnitedHealthCare
Thanks
Tyler

Jul 29, 2011
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My Pec Tear 6-1-2011
by: Anonymous

I tore my left pectoral tendon benching 450lbs on 6-1-11. I did not feel any major pain other than some dicomfort as the tendon ripped off the bone.
Tear was confirmed by MRI, muscle deformation, and the extreme bruising.
I had surgery 14 days after the injury.
Here is the recap:
June 1; Pec Tear
June 14; Surgery to reattach
June 14 to July 19; Arm in sling
July 19 to 26; began removing arm from sling
July 26; started rehab ROM, slow stretching

I am almost 7 weeks post OP, everything is going well. This is a very slow process and it should not be rushed. ROM is improving everyday...

Jul 30, 2011
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Bad tear advice?
by: Anonymous

Hello, I tore my left pec in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu 2 weeks ago. I am 40 years old very active and want to continue training quickly. I had an MRI and here is what the report said. "prominent increased signal at the myotendinous junction of the pectoralis major with discontinuity of fibers and moderate amount of fluid consistent with complete tear, Mild increased signal within the pectoralis major muscle suggesting muscle strain"

My doctor said surgery was not an option because the tendon is still attached. He said he could try to attach the muscle but it would be like trying to sew toilet paper back together. After reading some posts, it seems some of you have had surgery without a tendon rupture. I want a speedy recovery and dont want my chest to look funny. I tore the other side 2 years ago wakeboarding and have a small dent. I returned to full strength and mobility but this one is a lot worse. Any comments, suggestions or direction is appreciated. Thanks

Jul 30, 2011
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Left Pectoralis Major
by: ben

Hi,
I have just torn my left pectoralis major, i had ulta sound and mri scans done, then proceded to an orthopedic surgeon.

The surgeon said looking at the mri scan it has torn through the muscle belly, and not torn the tendon off the the humeral bone.

The surgeon said if he operated there may not be much chance of achieving anything.

I have bruising on the left bicep only, pain free really apart from lifting my arm all the way up, but each day getting more movement.

No real signs of deformation, the accident happened 5 days ago bench pressing.

Thank you for your time, any information will be appreciated.

Aug 01, 2011
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Get the surgery!
by: Mikey

I tore my left pec major last June and found a good surgeon who said it's 50/50 chance it will work. I got the surgery 5 weeks later and I was so discouraged, but a year later I'm glad I did. Listen to the dr and rehab clinic. It's about a year to full recovery, but well worth not having a saggy boob...

Aug 01, 2011
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Pectoralis Major
by: ben

Thanks Mikey for your info, booked in to see another surgeon today, sounds like it is worth a shot.

Do you what sort of recovery time if the operation is not successful?

Cheers.

Aug 02, 2011
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Unsuccessful Surgery
by: Mikey

From my research and feedback from where I got my surgery, the only unsuccessful recoveries were when the patient didn't listen to the dr and rehab clinics instructions. They started lifting weights or anything heavy too early and the muscle wasn't ready yet and tore again. Make sure you use a dr who has had success in the past and you should be fine. Remember it's about a 1 year recovery.

Aug 02, 2011
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Pectoralis Major
by: ben

Cheers Mikey,

Found a good surgeon, he is very confident, head in for surgery monday.

Thanks for all the info mate.

Will let you know down the track how it goes.

Aug 03, 2011
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starting the journey back tomorrow
by: Matt

Last week I ruptured my tendon from the humerus. I was well into my workout and on my second exercise of flat bench dumbell press, when I heard a pop and instant pain. I actually thought someone had shot me. Got in to see a top notch ortho and MRI confirmed the injury. I am having surgery tomorrow. I'll keep posting as my progress goes to help others and possibly answer questions if it helps. Thanks to all for your posts, it really has helped me tremendously as I've been really in the dumps over this whole thing, but it's reassuring to hear that others have come back from this too.

Aug 17, 2011
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Torn Pec Tendon 6-1-2011
by: Anonymous

I am now 9 weeks post surgery. Everything is going great. PT has got my ROM to 100%. Now I am trying to get my strength back, which is a slow and careful process.
All upper body lifting is 30-40 reps per set.
Legs I can lift heavy as I want to.
The key to everything is to stretch and get the ROM back first. Then the strength comes back quickly.
The only thing that shows that I had a torn tendon is the little scar. Hardly noticable.

Aug 20, 2011
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2.5 weeks post surgery
by: Matt

Well, I'm 2.5 weeks post surgery and the Dr said everything looks great. I feel better and my upper arm/chest dont really hurt that much (a couple of Advil every now and then). One thing that I bought that is worth its weight in gold is a Caldera hot and cold therapy shoulder wrap. My brother is a PT and recommended it to me. Dr wants me to wear my sling for 5 more weeks, and continue pendulum arm ROM and elbow and hand flexion. Feeling better every day and look forward to getting into PT to start my physical rehab.

Oct 30, 2011
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surgery this week
by: bxs

Complete tear approx 5 weeks ago. Surgery to re-attach this wednesday. Might could have gotten by without but random movements can cause pain. Also had a fear of more shoulder injury. Will post outcome this week.

Nov 02, 2011
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Partial Tear Surgery
by: Daniel

I'm currently 2 weeks post-op and am doing great. My doc initially said surgery would be difficult because the tendon was still attached to the bone and most of the tear was in the muscle belly. He said it would be like trying to sew 2 pieces of hamburger meat back together. I decided to do surgery anyways because I didn't wanna have any regrets. My doc successfully re-attached the tendon to tendon. Anyone know if I will have a good chance of regaining full strength? Was wondering if recovery is the same as a complete tear from the humerus bone? Thanks.

Nov 13, 2011
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Question to BXS and everyone else NEW
by: Rcece

Well, Im so stoked I found this site. Im in New Jersey and for the first time in my life heard the rare and disturbing "POP" two weeks ago when trying to get up into an attic. It was the day after a brutal chest workout and I think the muscles were still so fatigued and the tendon ruptured. Had bruising all along the bicep and there is a noticeable difference between the right and left (I hurt the right arm). I have not yet had it checked out because when it happened, I was in the process of getting insurance. Im hoping to have an ID # by this week and then will start the process of finding a stud DR. to get me back in order. Im scared shitless of surgery but I know it has to be done. For all of you that have had the surgery.....how much pain were you in for the first couple days. Please dont sugarcoat it for me. I was in pretty bad pain when it popped......is it worse then that pain or is it manageable with the pain meds. BXS....Id love to hear how your surgery went. Hope all went well... I will be posting from time to time because Im glad I now have a resource for info.

Nov 13, 2011
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Nov 14, 2011
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Complete Pec Tear - 7 weeks Post-op NEW
by: Anonymous

30 yr old - certified fitness trainer.
Complete pec tear during MMA competition.

Surgery completed on Sep.22nd -2011.

Wore sling for four weeks. By the end of the 2nd week, wanted to take it off, but kept wearing it to be safe and not risk re-injuring the muscle.

5th week out started PT. Range of motion is approx 75% back.

Pain is irrlevant..only took pain meds for about 4-5 days post op.

Main concern was getting back to liftin weights again.

I am currently in third week back of very light lifting (no chest or pushing motions)

Legs able to do moderate weights.

Using dumbbells for some light lifting. started w/5 pounders, 8 pounders, 10 pounders, and this week will start using some 15 pounders.

Keeping in the 15-20 rep range..being very cautious not to push stress on the pec region. Keeping form very strict.

For cardio..able to ride stationary bike and elipitcal machine..doctor says to lay off running for a few more weeks.

After getting cleared by doctor..hope to start light chest presses in 3-4 more weeks.

Nov 30, 2011
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Couldn't be fixed NEW
by: Anonymous

I was wondering if you guys could help me out with this. Back in August I had a major pec tendon tear from the humeral bone.It occurred while I was bench pressing in the gym and i heard a pop and my left arm went completely weak.After my MRI came back conferring this, I had surgery a little over a month after doing this and the DR.that performed my surgery informed me that when he went in to attach the tendon back to the humeral bone that the tendon had already started to attach it self to my pec and that there was on a little left of the tendon that he tried to attach back and that it wouldn't stay attached when he tried to attach it back. It has been two months since my surgery and I have really no strength in my left arm and i get pains, aches , and alot of soreness in my shoulder where i had the incision at (5 to 6inches)I have been told by my Dr that this will take along time to get better and haven't been able to work out since this happened do to Dr. orders but I will be able to finally start PT next month. I was wondering if anyone else has went thru this were it couldn't be repaired and how long it took them to recover back to some part of their normal self, or if you guys have any suggestions on what I should do.

Thanks

Dec 04, 2011
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Response to last post NEW
by: Anonymous

I'm sorry to hear that. I've heard people say that after this injury and as time passes, the tendo will begin to make a home on the muscle. If the Dr said he didn't have enough of the tendon to work with then that's obviously not good news. I think once u get to the 4 month mark u can make a better assessment. If u still have weakness then a graft maybe the only option. Again, sorry to hear that but give it another 8 weeks. Increase vitamin C as this is essential for collagen and tendon, tissue recovery. Good luck!

Dec 19, 2011
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tendon taken from knee NEW
by: Anonymous

I have opted to have surgery on my torn pec. The doctor said he will be taking the tendon fron my knee. has anyone else had a tendon taken from this area?

Jan 15, 2012
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pectoralis tear NEW
by: Anonymous

Hi,

I would like some advice. I torn something on my right side doing bench pres about 200lbs. I was trying to get back in shape after a left side mechanical tear that left my muscle looking saggy a few yrs ago. That was far worst, I almost fainted. Today I heard like a snap and left the weight on my chest. Afterwards I felt sick and felt like fainting, cold, etc. I drank a gatorade and it was better. About 3 hours after that I feel good but can't do much with my right hand. The muscle is not saggy this time but there is a small dimple somewhere in it near the shoulder. Is it possible with smart exercise and massage, etc, to recover the muscle and regain the original strength?

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