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
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		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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starstarstarstarstar 		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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starstarstarstarstar 		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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starstarstarstarstar 		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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starstarstarstarstar 		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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starstarstarstarstar 		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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starstarstarstarstar 		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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starstarstarstarstar 		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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starstarstarstarstar 		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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starstarstarstarstar 		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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starstarstarstarstar 		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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starstarstarstarstar 		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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starstarstarstarstar 		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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starstarstarstarstar 		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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starstarstarstarstar 		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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starstarstarstarstar 		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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starstarstarstarstar 		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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starstarstarstarstar 		pec tear
by: Anonymous

6 weeks lol try 3 months and still not much lifting
Apr 10, 2009
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starstarstarstarstar 		pec tear
by: Anonymous

6 weeks lol try 3 months and still not much lifting
Apr 10, 2009
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starstarstarstarstar 		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
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		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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starstarstarstarstar 		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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starstarstarstarstar 		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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starstarstarstarstar 		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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starstarstarstarstar 		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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starstarstarstarstar 		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
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		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
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		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
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		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
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		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
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		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
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		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
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		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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starstarstarstarstar 		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
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		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
Feb 15, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		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
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		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
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		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 08, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		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
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		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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starstarstarstarstar 		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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starstarstarstarstar 		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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starstarstarstarstar 		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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starstarstarstarstar 		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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starstarstarstarstar 		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
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		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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starstarstarstarstar 		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
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		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
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		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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starstarstarstarstar 		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
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		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 24, 2010
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starstarstarstarstar 		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
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		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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starstarstarstarstar 		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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starstarstarstarstar 		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
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		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
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		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
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		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
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		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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starstarstarstarstar 		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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starstarstarstarstar 		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
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		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
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		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 08, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		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
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		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
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		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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starstarstarstarstar 		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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starstarstarstarstar 		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
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		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
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		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
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		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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starstarstarstarstar 		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
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		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
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		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
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		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
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		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
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		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
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		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
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		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
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		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
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		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
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		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
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		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
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		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
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		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
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		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
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		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 14, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		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
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		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
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		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
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		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
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		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?
Mar 17, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		please HELP!!!!!!!!!!!!!! NEW
by: chr

HEY, I had surgery 6 weeks ago to reattach tendon to arm bone, 2 questions: my dr only used 2 metal anchors instead of 3. Is this still a strong repair? Also, yesterday I accidently put the arm behind back while tucking in my shirt, no pain at time BUT some pain later in day; did I retear it? Very worried, will start pt this week.
Mar 18, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Your fine!!! NEW
by: Anonymous

Relax....your fine. The muscles in your shoulder are tight and your bone is probably still very tender from drilling into it. At 6 weeks, the tendon has already started to heal (attach) to the bone. You would know if you retore it because there would most likely be a snap again or some discoloration from bleeding (from retearing). Im 4 months post-op and Im coming along very well. There were a couple times where I accidentally used it in a way and thought, "Damn, I delayed the healing process a little." You are fine and will notice week-to-week a slow but steady progression to full ROM. Good luck with the recovery......the time will pass quicker then you'll ever imagine. Remember to take protein supplement, a lot of vitamin C, and try and do some type of cardio to get the blood flowing through the body. As far as the two anchors, maybe your surgeon saw a little bit of the tendon was still on the bone. I have read a lot of surgeons only using two (mine used three). As long as he sewed both ends of the tendon in place (which Im sure he did) it will heal perfectly.
Mar 19, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		my pec tear NEW
by: Anonymous

hi,
2 weeks ago i tear my pec and im having surgery in few days...
The MRI says: Large tear/rupture of the left pectoralis major muscle at the level of the myotendinous junction
surgery is already scheduled and will be 20 days after the tear.
severe bruises and swollen with hematoma the first 2 weeks, lots of pain and i couldn't move my arm very much (no rx med for pain only some tylenol used only on 1st week)
today im on day 17 and i have no pain and i can move my arm in any direction except over my head
is that normal?
thank you for your help




Mar 21, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		^ NEW
by: Anonymous

^i think the hematoma caused the pain...
i was able to move my arm as well except over the head before surgery,and i was able to flex the pec too! weird
Apr 03, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		expert advice NEW
by: Anonymous

listen very carefully my jiu-jitsu body building brothers...i tore my right pec in the belly of the muscle 25yrs ago..after this moderate pec tear that took me out for 9 months i started coming back and regained and even exceeded some of my bench records..8 yrs ago i was better than ever and felt invulnerable to further injury..i tried to bench 300 for 10 and was stuck on it for 2 or 3 weeks..any way i missed the tenth rep and was just slightly off on my form,i tweeked something it did not feel right something happened..i did not want to quit my work out despite this small warning sign..so i went to a machine and on the first or second rep i felt a tear a one inch tear to be exact...the lesson hear brothers is that injurys happen alot when you are at your best when your feeling like superman...IF YOU HAVE TORN YOUR PEC YOU MUST PUT HEAVY WEIGHTS IN THE PAST..YOU CAN STILL LOOK LIKE ARNOLD YOU JUST DO PUMP ONLY WORKOUTS.VOLUME 15 TO 20 SETS .i should of never exceeded 250 or 260 after my first tear.do sets of 8 to 15 reps do lots of sets on smith machine..IF YOUR INJURY IS LIKE MINE IN THE BELLY AND SURJERY IS NOT POSSIBLE AND YOUR PEC IS NOW DROOPY..YOU MUST DO VERY LIMITED NUMBER OF SETS ON A FLAT BENCH..MY WORK OUT TODAY STARTS WITH VERY LOW INCLINE SMITH MACHINE THEN HAMMER INCLINES then high incline smiths.you must now balance out the droop with a shit load of inclines..today i cannot even barbell bench 205 with out risking further tearing.5 yrs ago i tinkerded with 235 and tore some fibers on top of the sheath of the muscle belly.. atorn muscle is structurely never the same..it truly sucks not being able to bench
Apr 07, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Pec tear 1yr later NEW
by: Anonymous

Going on a year I had my pec tear opted to have surgey done. Got it done by the Astros and Texans team surgeon. Still not as strong but then again I don't push myself near as hard. I have no limitations and without a doubt I can get my strength back to what it was if not more. Physically I'm in great shape and no longer have the urge to go heavier and heavier. Only thing I have noticed is for those who are all lean muscle the symetry of your chest will appear perfect except for when you flex the muscle. That is the only time you will notice the difference in symetry.
Apr 17, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		left pec spasm-ed while lifting then maybe ruptured NEW
by: Anonymous

I was bench pressing 225 and I tried to add another 2.5 lb from each sides and in my second rep while the bar was coming down, I felt rapid muscle spasms (a vibrating sensation) on my left pectoral and my left arm gave out. My spotter thought I was in control he did not help much. He eventually took the bar off me. It has been a week now. My biceps and left side of my left pectoral became all bruised (bruising started to fade away now). My left breast became all swollen. The swelling started to go down. I felt pain the first 2 days and now I rarely feel any pain. My ROM is limited. I cannot lift my arm laterally. The area is sore when I touch it. I have to be careful when sleeping. I am sure I need a surgery. I don't know the extend of my injury yet. I am in area with limited medical support and no access to an MRI or good doctors. I am hoping to get out of here soon and see the exact nature of my rupture. The nearest country to me is the UAE. If anyone can recommend a good Ortho Surgeon in that country I will greatly appreciate it.
Apr 17, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		pec tear type 2 NEW
by: Anonymous

mine was
type 2: rupture at the musculotendinous junction (rupture in between tendon and muscle)
MOSTLY MUSCLE.. surgery went well and doc told me was very difficult to suture the muscle himself but he was able to do it so im happy.
im on my 3rd week in the sling 3 more weeks and i will start PT.
to anyone who had the same type of rupture and had surgery can you please share your experience/progress?
im asking because most of the comment above are type 1 rupture (tendon off the bone)
mine is much more difficult but it can be done.
Apr 27, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		hurt but too old to fix?? NEW
by: Anonymous

one week ago while benching i completly tore the major pectoral muscle from the humurus bone. MRI has confirmed with complete tear and movement of 6cm. I am 44 years of age and very active for my age. My surgeon is recommending to not have the surgery completed. Anyone care to comment about not having the surgery. I do not need to bench over 300 anymore. I just want to bow hunt and fish as before.
Apr 27, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		hurt but too old to fix?? NEW
by: Anonymous

one week ago while benching i completly tore the major pectoral muscle from the humurus bone. MRI has confirmed with complete tear and movement of 6cm. I am 44 years of age and very active for my age. My surgeon is recommending to not have the surgery completed. Anyone care to comment about not having the surgery. I do not need to bench over 300 anymore. I just want to bow hunt and fish as before.
Apr 28, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		post surgery advice.experience NEW
by: 40 year old recreational weightlifter

Just had surgery for left pec majoralis complete tear of tendon at sternal head. Tendon tore while bench pressing 315 pounds (normal peak rep for me) when I lowered bar on 2nd rep. Heard 3 pops and felt like some tore something out of my chest. I immediately thought that I tore a tendon. My idiot spotter (my own fault for asking him to spot) could not or would not lift the bar even after I yelled help so I had to to clear the bar even after tendon had torn.

Surgeon advises that surgery was success, just getting past first 5 days of hell post-surgery and stopped taking pain killers.

1. Any advice on keeping mood up during the shoulder sling 6 week period?

2. I may have to live outside my home country during middle of rehab period. Does anyone have experience with changing physical therapists completely during the 6 month PT recovery period? Did this interfere with rehab in anyone's experience?

3. I do not intend to go back to heavy weights. Is it possible to recover or exceed pre-surgery mass through lower weight higher rep exercise or alternative exercises?
Apr 29, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		^ NEW
by: Anonymous

1.suck it up!
2.doc will give you a protocol,just tell the PT to follow...
3. maybe
Apr 29, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		^to the fishing man NEW
by: Anonymous

to the 44yo:
if you don't mind getting about 60/65% strenght back instead 85/100 and if you don't care have a very visible pec deformation then don't go 4 surgery.
Many ppl regret not having surgery..
2nd opinion it's a beautiful thing..just saying.
May 02, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		weight loss NEW
by: 40 year old recreational weightlifter

how much weight loss have other people who have had this surgery experienced? I am losing about a pound per day since surgery. I suspect losing intracellular hydration, muscle fiber cell loss from atrophy, and some fat because of my reduced consumption of carbs. I am sure weight will bounce back as I recover, but unnerving now.
May 02, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		13 WEEKS AFTER SURGERY NEW
by: Anonymous


I had the surgery 13 weeks ago for reattachment of pectoral tendon. I have read conflicting things regarding working out. Some say that I need to do very light weights every day so that the tendon gets strong and other people have said don’t do any exercise for another 3 months. Should I work out lightly or should I wait to exercise the tendon?
May 02, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		13 WEEKS AFTER SURGERY NEW
by: Anonymous


I had the surgery 13 weeks ago for reattachment of pectoral tendon. I have read conflicting things regarding working out. Some say that I need to do very light weights every day so that the tendon gets strong and other people have said don’t do any exercise for another 3 months. Should I work out lightly or should I wait to exercise the tendon?
May 02, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		^ NEW
by: Anonymous

to the 44y.o.
don't worry about weight loss,muscle etc..
right now all you need is be focus on recovery and healing.
i did lost a lot after 6 weeks in the sling my arm is 3 inch smaller then the good one and my front deltoid is gone! sucks but it's only temporary.
the best you can do right now is stay lean,do some legs, some cardio and train the good side.
May 02, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		metal detectors NEW
by: 40 year old recreational weightlifter

anyone with titanium from this surgery: does it set off metal detectors at airports?
May 14, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Tore pec from humerus Tuesday NEW
by: mid40s

MRI scheduled for Thursday. Will keep the page updated.
May 25, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		mri was negative NEW
by: mid40s

For a pec tear but the MRI machine only went over my shoulder so I'm not sold on the diagnosis. They said I had a SLAP 2 tear (shoulder labrum anterior to posterior) but the bruising I had was identical to a pec tear. Right pec was completely bruised and right bicep to the elbow was bruised. Happened on the 8th and almost all of the bruising is gone but my pec is still sore and flexes to the center of my chest instead of upward like my left pec. I go back June 15th for my 30 day follow up. I'll see how it goes until then.
Jun 01, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		what to do with a minor tear? I think its minor. NEW
by: Anonymous

So I inintially first injured my left side of my chest my armpit area during incline bench of 295. It did hurt pretty bad but shook it off and stayed out the gym for about 1wk. I then began to lift again staying away from chest workouts for about 1 wk and a half and then gradually starting working bench back into my routine doing light weights and high reps as the pain began to fade away. After about 1 month and a half I began to feel more confident in my strength again and began going heavy in bench but still stood away from incline bench at least with the bar but stuck with the machines for that. So going in my 3rd wk of heavy from 4 by 4 to 3 by 3 to 5 by 5 I got on my last set of bench already doing 320 for 5 previously I began to lift up on my 3rd press and felt another rip in my left chest muscle (armpit area to my upper bicep). This time it didn't hurt as bad but was left with a slight bruise on my bicep. There is no droopiness nor is there any real discomfort just an annoying pain in my armpit. Can I just let it naturally heal and forget about going real heavy anymore although that will be difficult as I am accustomed to always push myself? And will it be 100 percent again or do I always have to worry about it being reinjured? I read some of the stories but I honestly think mine is not that bad to need surgeory and I'm a strong believer in natural recooperation. By the way I'm 32 yrs old so I'm willing to hang up the heavy weights but would like to at least get back to pushing 315 for 10 to 12 times. Is that realistic with this injury without surgeory??
Jun 04, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		post sling initial period NEW
by: Anonymous

How long does it take (generally) for the immobilized arm to feel somewhat normal after end of 6 week immobilization period? I do not mean appearance (muscle size or density), but in terms of nerves. I assume it is normal for some pain and odd feelings when arm is releases from sling -- when will the arm start hanging correctly? Any guidance from someone who went through the surgery appreciated.
Jun 08, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		misdiagnosed NEW
by: mid40s

I think the doc misdiagnosed my pec tear. The MRI machine only went over my shoulder so I'm not sure they got a picture of my pec. I know its torn because I used to flex my pecs and they would move upward. Now my right pec (torn one) moves toward the center of my chest. I still have pain where the tendon retracted to the pec. I go back for my 30 day followup on the 15th of June. I'm going to ask him to refer me to a surgeon that has done pec tear repairs.
Jun 16, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		8 weeks post op NEW
by: Nick

I have my 8 week follow up this Tuesday
Tore pec from humerus trying to do a flag pole stand

Played soccer for next 4 weeks then had MRI. Tendon sheared off Humerus.

Dr noted that he had to dissect muscle off of itself as it was already healing when surgery was done.

I am 45 former national bodybuilder and semi-pro soccer player

Back to training all body parts except right side specific and compound upper body bi lateral movements

Doctor used Kevlar sutchers instead of anchors.

Feel really good expect to start range of motion for right side this week.

All cardio has been fixed movement....NO BOUNCING
I was playing on two competitive soccer teams and weight training 3 times a week

I expect to be back on the field playing by September and rehab slowly until then

Not a lot of info out there on recovery expectations. Dr said to expect 80 to 100 percent recovery within 12 months

No soccer or serious traing for 4 to 6 months
My nutrition has been great and by traing all other body parts and cardio I expect to be on the 4 month end of it

Get the surgery, stay disciplined and heal by being as active and healthy as you can

I will keep you all posted
Jun 30, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Inquiring about PT after surgery NEW
by: Simo in Baghdad

I ruptured my left pectoral major from my humerus. I had surgery 9 weeks ago. The Titanium anchors do not set off alarms. I started PT 2 weeks ago, but I felt soreness and my left pec swelled some. So I am resting it to wait for the swelling to go down. It is tricky as you do not know what is the optimal weight you should use. I have been using 5 LB dumb-bells. If anyone can shed more insight on PT post surgery it will be greatly appreciated
Jun 30, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		10 weeks after surgery NEW
by: Nick

I started PT 2 weeks ago

Arm bike 3 times a week 10 minutes very light resistance

Weight training all body parts normally except right pec.
I have not exceeded 5 to 10 lbs resistance
Very slow, deliberate and no more than 10 reps 3 sets

I had my first free style swim in the gulf today
Only 15 minutes very slow and worked on range of motion
Not pulling hard

I am very optimistic. All going very well
Played an hour of pick up soccer 2 days ago...told everyone to lay off ...

Biggest thing to focus on if you are reading this and similar circumstances is range of motion.

DO NOT WORRY ABOUT WEIGHT NOW ON THE DAMAGED PEC! RANGE OF MOTION IS KEY

I have read severa articles from teaching hospitals and getting a good reattachment with range of motion is a priority from week 6 to week 12

Best of luck

NICK

Jul 01, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		To Nick NEW
by: Simo in Baghdad

Are you experiencing any swelling after your exercises? When you played soccer, was your pect bouncing an issue? I have problem running very light as my pect bounces and I experience pain right away. For any fast activity, I need to hold on to my pect.
Jul 03, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		frozen shoulder NEW
by: Anonymous

I am now 4 weeks post sling removal in PT. Arm feeling much better, but still have very stiff shoulder, which clicks all the time. The clicking is driving me crazy. Anyone have experience with this? Thank you
Jul 10, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Pec detached NEW
by: Dave ash

Hi I think I have detached my pec not torn it. Have been past from pillar to post with this an I totally fed up with it all I used to been in the gym 5/6 days a week now can only ride my bike or do cardio have no strength in my chest at all an it's Painful if I do. I did it bench pressing have had MRI , ultra sound just seen a surgeon said didn't think he could help me but referred to a sports surgeon this happened last october an still waiting anyone know if it is possible to reattach ?? Really need so good news many thanks
Jul 12, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		To Simo in Bagdad NEW
by: Nick

Hi Simo

Yes the pec bouncing is a little irritating
I am not experiencing swelling.
I wear an extra tight compression shirt which helps a lot
I am now at 170 degrees range of motion
I am swimming 3 times a week
Lifting normal on all other body parts
Damaged pec I am lifting in isometric form at 20 percent
I will increase that 5 percent a month until normal
I will definitely take that slow

It is extremely important to stretch and get range of motion back
The more I stretch the better it feels

I am playing soccer at roughly 75 percent and not torquing explosively yet

I hope that helps

Good luck

Nick
Jul 14, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		To Nick NEW
by: Simo in Baghdad

Thank for the detail explanation. I am going to buy compression shirts and wear them to work out from now. My ROM is still limited (150 degrees at best).

Is it normal to feel pain during and after your stretching sessions?
Jul 27, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Pain post surgery NEW
by: Nick

Yes it is normal to be in pain after rehab and stretching

The two things that have helped the most have been the arm bike and swimming

Swimming has significantly increased my range of motion and reduced the pain

I have also experienced clicking in my shoulder early after getting off the sling

It went away in about 4 to 6 weeks

Starting to use hammer strength chest press 100 lbs. left side
30 to 40 lbs. right side

Will continue to increase very slowly
All other exercises are pretty much back to normal
Jul 30, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Decisions, decisions... Second Pec Tear NEW
by: Romeydahomie

I originally tore my left pectoral muscle in Sept 2009 while training jiu jitsu. Some collegiate wrestler tried to get me in the armbar while I was laying on my side holding on my gi to prevent the armbar. He eventually yanked my arm and tore my pec. I had a horrible physician who told me to ice it. I had an MRI and the MRI did not show anything. Maybe because the doctor only did an MRI to the shoulder and not the chest.

I didn't have surgery and rehabed it by myself. I started with wall push ups to light dumbels and later with the 45 lbs bar and gradually moved up.
I changed my workout routine and only lift light weight and usually do a 155lbs with 20 reps with 5 sets.

Everything went well and I cont. training 5 months after the injury and gained 80% of my strength.

However on July 4th 2012 while training jiu jitsu I was in the same position and tore my right pectoral muscle. MRI showed rupture of the humerus insertion and my doctor says I definitley need surgery. Im almost a month out and feel good. However I barely can do a girl push up and can bench the bar. Im pondering if I should go with the surgery this time around or not. I feel no pain and feel normal except for benching.

BTW I still haven't gone back to training. Pondering if I should just cont. and just go with conservative treatment.
Aug 08, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Pectoral Process NEW
by: NickP

I first want to thank everyone contributing to this page it has been very helpful for me throughout the whole process, so I would like to contribute. I blew my Pec Major from the Humorous out exactly 3 months ago doing bench press. For those looking for a sign if you tore it, you would experience a considerable amount of bruising in your inner bicept and armpit area. Also bringing your arms together, you'll notice missing that flap in front of your armpit.

SURGERY PROCESS/RECOVERY
I had surgery 2 months ago using the 3 anchor screws and sutchors technique. I was in a sling for 5 weeks with very limited movement, and it felt very fragile through that time. After the 1st week of surgery, they had me doing very light streching before bed. The pain wasn't too terribly following the surgery and I was off the pain meds in 4 days. I have had pain flairups throughout these past 2 months where I have needed something a little more than advil though. The 1st week out of the sling was very painful just hanging there, and it felt very fragile. Once therapy got it moving a bit, it loosened up and started to feel a bit better.

PHYSICAL THERAPY
I started physical therapy 3 weeks ago (now im 8 week post opp). Muscle shrinkage was substantial from surgery (30% loss) My vertical range of motion started at 110 deg, and has now increased to 160 deg. I have had a lot of problems with my surrounding shoulder muscles tightening up badily restricting my movement, and causing considerble pain. The repaired area has done very well with little pain. The surgeon has now cleared me to run, lift lightly, and use my arm for normal day to day light activities and it is getting easier and easier every day. I can honestly say my arm is stronger now on inward movements (shutting car door for instance) than it was prior to surgery when detached. The rest of the arm stregnth will be many months away yet.


Conclusion:
It has been a slow recovery so far, with a few setbacks, but I can start to see the progress beyond my pre surgery level only being 8 weeks post operation. I'm going for my 1st run tonight, so we'll see how that goes. I would recommend the surgery at this point, just be patient, deal with the pain, trust in the therapy, and trust in the Lord.
Oct 06, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		lump under skin NEW
by: Anonymous

hi,
im 6 months after surgery fully recovered
but i have a lump under the skin right next to the scar.
doc told me it's scar tissue
anyone had the same issue?
i really hope it goes away
Oct 08, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		recovery NEW
by: Anonymous

I am almost 6 months post surgery. I have (I think) 100% recovery in range of motion. Some inflammation in my elbow on my surgery side, but it is getting a bit better. Shoulder clicks, but not sure if this is from surgery or from actual injury. Staying away from bench pressing, but up to 60 lb on dumbbells on various angles on the chest and up to 100 push ups per set. Starting to hit hypertrophy and I am slowly rebuilding my atrophied shoulder. I shed lots of fat after surgery -- I recommend strict diet of olive oil-cooked fish and vegetables during recovery -- maximizing omega fatty acids and high quality protein and fiber. I feel great and people say that i look 5 years younger. In a way, I am glad that I had the pec tear.
Oct 16, 2012
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starstarstarstarstar 		recovery diet NEW
by: Anonymous

^how many meals a day?
can you post your diet?
Oct 16, 2012
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starstarstarstarstar 		my recovery diet -- as requested NEW
by: Anonymous

Background: My appetite plummeted immediately after surgery. My metabolism shut down and my body immediately started shedding muscle. You can not anything to fight it. Best you can is try to get lean as possible.

My diet:

As much water as possible all the time

Breakfast: oatmeal with nuts and hot low fat milk, 2 eggs scrambled cooked in olive oil; at least one glass of fiber supplement (I got the mix from GNC, tastless)

lunch: chicken, brown rice, salad or similar

dinner: fish cooked in olive oil, vegetables steamed or cooked in olive oil, no starch (OCCASIONALLY red meat cooked in olive oil for iron and to avoid excessive mercury -- but not too much because you are not going to be that active)

snacks: fresh cut fruit, nuts

I could not make a typical weightlifter diet work of frequent small meals, as I had little appetite

Supplements: at advice of my doctor, I avoided all anti-inflammatory vitamins or painkillers for first 6 weeks, as they can promote internal bleeding and perhaps interfere with healing process. I took calcium, vitamin D, manganese only first 6 weeks and tylenol for pain.

After 6 weeks I added the anti-inflammatory vitamins like C, E to promote bloodflow and also started taking some advil to control inflammation.

All I know is I healed very quickly, got very lean, now have a visible 6 pack (did not before), and my muscles are slowly coming back.

One last thing: I bought an electro muscular stimulation machine through Amazon and, when my doctor permitted, I started stimulating my legs and eventually my good arm and the finally my bad arm and this helped me stay sane and kept blood flowing to various muscle groups. You can also safely use an EMS machine without worrying about bumping your bad arm at the gym.

GOOD LUCK
Dec 29, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Complete rupture from the Humerus.. Doc NEW
by: Dr Z

Hey guys... I'm a doc.... Working in ortho (training).. Aspiring orthopedic surgeon. Tore my left pec benching on Dec 18th 2012..it's been about 10days..did not have an mri... The doc did not require it.. He diagnosed it simply by being able to palate the belly of the muscle in my chest. I'm usually the one helping fix others... Guess the tables have turned. I am a bit nervous about the procedure but it's all in your attitude. Half of the healing process is psychological. We shall work thru this. I got one of the best orthopods doing my surgery... Having surgery intthe next week or so. No pain.. No gain.. Will get back to you guys post op.... Regards.
Dec 29, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Cycle post op? NEW
by: Anonymous

Anyone have info about doing a light anabolic cycle after surgery.... Let's say after 6-8 wees? I help lube the joints build back that depleted muscle for a quicker recovery? I do know that some juice weakens tendon... But was thinking a light 8 week cycle of anavar and deca.
Jan 05, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		shooting pains NEW
by: Nick

Hi everyone. I tore my right pec major off the bone and tenon. I had my surgery in April 2011, everything went well, but when I do certain movements (ex. Bench press, pull ups) I get sharp shooting pains in my pec. What is causing this? Is this normal? Can I expect this to stop? I know I most likely won't have a strong bench, but the fact that I can't do thongs like pull ups, or even throw a hard punch disturbs me.
Jan 05, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		shooting pains NEW
by: Nick

Hi everyone. I tore my right pec major off the bone and tenon. I had my surgery in April 2011, everything went well, but when I do certain movements (ex. Bench press, pull ups) I get sharp shooting pains in my pec. What is causing this? Is this normal? Can I expect this to stop? I know I most likely won't have a strong bench, but the fact that I can't do thongs like pull ups, or even throw a hard punch disturbs me.
Jan 15, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		pec major tear NEW
by: Shirley

Hi, i,ve just had my right pec major tendon reattached to the humerus bone and a bicep tenosis done, I,m not a bench presser or weight lifter and I never bruised or even had much of a dent in chest but i was told thats because i have a bust whereas bench pressers are all muscle so it shows more. I do have a heavy job and i do remember when it started to hurt but basically mine got weaker over a period of 2 years to the point i couldn,t lift anything even a cup away from my body at elbow height without it causing me pain in my armpit and side of bust and my shoulder would bunch up in pain probably trying to compensate for the lack of strength. The surgery was done 4th jan 2013 so i,m now in a sling. i have been told not to move arm just to do light stretches of pulling shoulder blades back but does anyone think i would get better ROM if i did very light pendulim exercises to try keep the movement there. My scar looks a sight and i,m blistering under armpit cos its in same position all the time. i have horses and i just really want to know when it repairs will i be strong enough to hold the reigns if they start to pull hard without causing damage to the repair. To those who put comments on thinking they have tore a tendon and in time it got better well i,m sorry tendons don't get better on their own, if its a small tear it may feel better if you dont use it as much but in time it will be susceptical to further injury and will almost certainly need surgery if you want to train or work at the same previous level, its more likely muscle belly that was injured if it eventually got better.
Feb 06, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		left pectoral tear NEW
by: warren

hi iam 35 years old i tore my left pectoral 10 years ago doing barbell bench i was able to bench at the time 400 i was 25 years old. i really want to have surgery but is it to late not worried about being super strong anymore just want my pectoral to look normal i will not even take my shirt off while swimming i still work out today but i can only do dumbell workouts i have watched videos of the surgery and i would say my tear was one of the worst kinds of pectoral tears my main concern is it to late for surgery.
Mar 03, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Torn right pec NEW
by: Billy B

Tore my right pec fully off the humerus last week. Got an MRI and my ortho was able to get me in for surgery only 5 days after the tear. I'm in a lot of pain and this sling sucks. So afraid to sneeze and retear it haha.
Apr 04, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Major Pec tear 8 years apart NEW
by: Billy Mac

I first tore my right Pec muscle after jumping off a 50' cliff into a lake. My right arm was not tucked all they way and as I hit the water, the pec tore. Had two surgeries back to back to repair this, but both failed. The surgeon who did the procedure said that pulling the muscle over to sew it into the shoulder and contracting the tendon was like grabbing wet toilet paper. So result, was very poor. I have been left with a large indentation on my rightside, I have regained about 60% streghth in the right pec/shoulder area.

Fast forward 8 years, whle doing my daily push ups,using push up bars, I ruptured and tore badly my left pec muscle. I knew right away. I am 7 days post surgery, so still icing, and in a sling for another 5 or so weeks. The difference on his surgery is the surgeon. Dr Warme Cheif Orthopedic Surgeon at University Of WA Medical Center. He has a self created anchoring system he has developed, to tie the pec, reattach the tendon, into the shoulder and bicep. I'm 47 years old and am confident this procedure will be successful. I plan on Dr Warme operating on my right pec, to repair it.
Apr 04, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Pec tear NEW
by: Shirley

Hi I'm 3 month now post op. I still have ltd movement due to unfortunately getting a frozen shoulder after op. I did all exercises as told but was told it can happen and there's no explanation why it happens to some and not others. The pain has reduced unless I try to stretch the frozen shoulder too much. I can feel my pec tendon gradually getting stronger but a way to go yet which doesn't help not having full Rom back yet. I will keep yous updated on recovery and just a little tip. I've kept a diary on my recovery which has helped when I've felt no improvement but after looking back I've seen that although slow it is improving
Apr 25, 2013
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starstarstarstarstar 		To repair or not? NEW
by: Old fart

OK I'm probably the only 63 yo to ruptured a pec. At my age the clear recomendation was not to repair it. Now almost a year later the shoulder feels awful. It gets sore after even with just about any activity: yard work, tennis and worst of all when I sleep on it.

I'm scheduled for surgery in five days, but am having strong second thoughts after reading about the lenghty recovery.

I'm a swimmer and biker. My doc says it will be 8 months post op before I'm able to swim. I'm seeing some folks swimming in 2. I would think light freestyle would be excellent PT. I would also think stationary bike would be fine as soon as I feel like it.

Any thoughts comments would be appreciated. I don't lift so the loss of strength isn't the primary reason for the surgery. I just want the pain to go away. Though it would be nice not to feel this "empty" feeling with each movenent of my arm!
Apr 26, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		PEC REPAIR NEW
by: shirley

hi, to the above comment, im 4 months post op and i,m now swimming well in breast stroke and using a float to try and get the stretch back in my tendon, it is a lengthy recovery and painful one so u need to mentally prepare for that but i definately think its been wortth it in the end, they anchored my tendon to top of humerous bone with two titanium anchors and released my bicep tendon and wrapped this round it to strenthen it, mine is about an inch shorter than the other and i,ve cried with the pain and been very depressed and i thought i had mentally prepared myself, but this is the important bit i'd do it all again because i had no strength at all and was in pain because mine was still attach by a thread, so go for it it sounds like u need it and good luck
Apr 26, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		PEC REPAIR NEW
by: shirley

hi, to the above comment, im 4 months post op and i,m now swimming well in breast stroke and using a float to try and get the stretch back in my tendon, it is a lengthy recovery and painful one so u need to mentally prepare for that but i definately think its been wortth it in the end, they anchored my tendon to top of humerous bone with two titanium anchors and released my bicep tendon and wrapped this round it to strenthen it, mine is about an inch shorter than the other and i,ve cried with the pain and been very depressed and i thought i had mentally prepared myself, but this is the important bit i'd do it all again because i had no strength at all and was in pain because mine was still attach by a thread, so go for it it sounds like u need it and good luck
May 19, 2013
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starstarstarstarstar 		indentation NEW
by: Myluck

Had surgery about a month ago, tore the tendon off the bone. I was just curious if anyone that has had this surgery noticed they still had some type of indentation in their peck post surgery? And it feels as if I can feel the tendon still? Its not as bad as it was before but I notice its different after the surgery (As in its not like it was before I was injured) Is this normal?

Goodluck to all
May 19, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Swimming after pec repair NEW
by: Old Fart

Hi Shirley (and others),

Well I did it and I'm now 2.5 weeks post op. So far I've found the recovery to be easier than expected, only one night of severe pain. self sufficient after 4.

I was wondering when were you allowed to swim? and with what restrictions? What were you able to do when the sling came off? Could you actually use it for Activities of Daily Living?

Whats been the hardest part of you rehab? and does it involve pain?

Thanks



May 19, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		After Surgery NEW
by: MyLuck

You can probably get in the water, but I dont think you would be able to do anything for at least 2 months to be safe involving swimming laps or anything of that sort, it could even take 3 months, you dont want to put a lot of stress on the tendon I was told.

Physical Therapy, only consists of small movements its mostly stretching the tendon and muscle back out. I have discomfort in my chest from it but nothing serious regarding pain wise.

GoodLuck

And if anyone can tell me if they noticed their chest looking different after the surgery was performed where it didn't go back to normal but it looks better than it did before the surgery.

thanks.
May 19, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Pec Major Tendon Tear NEW
by: N

Tore my pec tendon at the end of April at the humerus. I'm 5 days post op....no regrets. As said in all other posts, no pain after 2nd day...(only post-op pain i experienced mimicked soreness). I think I will have the biggest problem in dealing with this sling, I realize that it is serving a huge role in recovery but it is way uncomfortable! i think i would have slept through the night at day 2 post-op if this sling didn't constrict my forearm into pain! i find myself waking up from it which requires me to gently rotate my wrist into different clock positions to get back to sleep. The other thing i found is a tender spot just behind my elbow at the base of my tricep area. Other than that, I'm taking baby steps but eager to get back on the horse.
I found this site and the posts from those who have walked this path very helpful. I will post my progress like everyone else has to hopefully inform/educate those who are at the beginning of their journey. My regards to all and I will meet this obstacle head on and overcome it...like we all will.
May 19, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Pec major tendon repair NEW
by: Old Fart

Hi N,

For sure you have the right attitude for this! I'm just now 13 days post op and had similar problems as you. I found squeezing a sponge ball and flexing at the elbow (no weight)helped. I also found it helpful to take the sling off When watching TV or working on my computer. I started PT 10 days post op and was able to do passive things which really helped the discomfort of the sling, just felt good to get the blood flowing to the arm. You might also look into getting a larger sling. I'm 140 lbs and have a large.
May 20, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		pec majr tendon repair NEW
by: Anonymous

Hi Old Fart,

Thanks for the kind words and thanks for your suggestions! I will try those things today! I forgot to mention one other bummer about this "post-op sling time"....NO SHOWERING!!!! lol. This sponge bath thing takes so damn long!!! I'm looking forward to the 6 week point so I could throw this sling into the street and start physical therapy....
May 20, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Pec Major Tendon Tear NEW
by: N

Hi Old Fart,

Thanks for the kind words and thanks for your suggestions! I will try those things today! I forgot to mention one other bummer about this "post-op sling time"....NO SHOWERING!!!! lol. This sponge bath thing takes so damn long!!! I'm looking forward to the 6 week point so I could throw this sling into the street and start physical therapy....
May 20, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Pec tear NEW
by: Shirley

Just take it easy and don't rush. My time in sling was the easy part. It's when it comes off all the pain starts. Your shoulder may possibly be frozen if your as unlucky as me and that in itself is painful just trying to get movement back. I'm now five month post op and I'm just starting to feel like I'm getting back to normal and it's a good feeling but believe me I've done a lot of crying thinking I'm never gonna be right. Mind you I still haven't got all range of movement back but they strength is good now and I'm nearly pain free. So it's a slow journey but definately worth it
May 20, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Pec Major Tear NEW
by: N

Thanks Shirley....I'm happy to hear that you are slowly feeling normal again! I realize that I need to slow down...I'm just anxious to get back on the path again! Here's a question:
How long did it take you (and everyone else) to sleep in a supine position? My surgeon pretty much said that I would be able to do this as soon as I felt no pain when lying down. How long after that until the pillows and other propping devices can disappear? (ok...I lied...2 questions...lol)

Thanks in advance!!!
May 20, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Sleeping position NEW
by: Old Fart

Hi N,

I have THREE answers for you! First, this is worth a million bucks (you can mail it to me). Waterproof dressing. I was able to shower day one post op (with wifie standing by). You may need help to apply it, due to the location. Just don't soak the affected area. If you tilt to the side from the waist and let the affected arm hang out you'll be able to wash and dry the armpit. Boy did that feel good! PASSIVE MOTION ONLY!!!

As far as sleeping position, supine was fine from day one, at day 15 I can sleep on my unaffected side. Unfortunately those are two positions my back can't tolerate, so I haven't had a good nights sleep since surgery. I found my recliner most comfortable (not quite supine). If you have one give it a try.

The third answer (you didn't even ask)is Codmans this will allow shoulder motion to prevent freezing. You should check with you surgeon before doing them. If you need a better description than you can find on the web, let me know.

Heal well!

May 20, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Sleep position NEW
by: N

Old Fart,

Thank you once again sir! Will hit the local drug store tomorrow for the dressing! I've been sleeping on a low backed couch in my basement since day 1. It positions me in a quasi-recliner position...pretty comfy but not as comfy as my bed! I will try a propped supine position on the couch tonight and hopefully climb back into bed shortly after. (although the wife is enjoying the extra room i'm sure!)
I will also call on that product for my shoulder in the morning. (great info...thanks!) I think I may have solved the forearm thing by using my shoulder bag strap pad under the sling support straps that are digging into my forearm!
Thanks again!!!
May 20, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Sleeping position NEW
by: Old Fart

Hi N,

I have THREE answers for you! First, this is worth a million bucks (you can mail it to me). Waterproof dressing. I was able to shower day one post op (with wifie standing by). You may need help to apply it, due to the location. Just don't soak the affected area. If you tilt to the side from the waist and let the affected arm hang out you'll be able to wash and dry the armpit. Boy did that feel good! PASSIVE MOTION ONLY!!!

As far as sleeping position, supine was fine from day one, at day 15 I can sleep on my unaffected side. Unfortunately those are two positions my back can't tolerate, so I haven't had a good nights sleep since surgery. I found my recliner most comfortable (not quite supine). If you have one give it a try.

The third answer (you didn't even ask)is Codmans this will allow shoulder motion to prevent freezing. You should check with you surgeon before doing them. If you need a better description than you can find on the web, let me know.

Heal well!

May 21, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Pec tear NEW
by: Shirley

Hi. I actually was a bit naughty and after a week slept without my sling. But saying that I'm a very light sleeper and I kept my arm in the position my sling would have it as for showering I did the same here I just kept my elbow into my side and was careful. With regards to the sleep getting back to normal I'm sorry to say this but at four month I've logged sore thru the night little sleep but like I say I'm five month now and I'm sleeping well. And it wasn't every night I was like that but not sure if that's cos I was that tired nothing would wake me up. I was very impatient just like you and that can actually make it harder but I'm swimming gardening and horse riding now so keep positive it does get better :-)
May 21, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Pec tear NEW
by: Shirley

Hi. I actually was a bit naughty and after a week slept without my sling. But saying that I'm a very light sleeper and I kept my arm in the position my sling would have it as for showering I did the same here I just kept my elbow into my side and was careful. With regards to the sleep getting back to normal I'm sorry to say this but at four month I've logged sore thru the night little sleep but like I say I'm five month now and I'm sleeping well. And it wasn't every night I was like that but not sure if that's cos I was that tired nothing would wake me up. I was very impatient just like you and that can actually make it harder but I'm swimming gardening and horse riding now so keep positive it does get better :-)
May 21, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Pec Tear NEW
by: N

Hi Shirley,

Thanks for sharing your experiences with me! You nailed the fact that I'm growing more and more impatient to re-enter normal life functions. At this point, I'm feeling no pain and basically little to no discomfort. (other than the forearm thing!) I've been off all pain medications since day 3 (was only taking percocets for overnights although I really didn't need them). I'm just on some preventive antibiotics and will be for another few days.
I realize that I need a choker collar sometimes and understand that I need to be more patient with this. It's amazing how much of a life altering experience being in a sling is as well as an injury like this! I will forge on and I'm not the least bit discouraged!

Thanks again and I will continue to track my progress!
May 22, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Perspective NEW
by: N

Just as an aside, i just heard a story of a person who was in the hospital for a pancreatic issue a few days ago and is now in ICU for possible kidney failure. While this is an apples to oranges issue, it made me realize how ridiculous my banter about my pec tear, sling issues, etc. was/is.

On a more relevant issue, slept in a reclined/supine position last night and it was good!!! 1 week post-surgery and I feel pretty damn good. Progress.....

May 22, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		pec tear NEW
by: shirley

One other thing is mine was a partial tear i wasnt given a very good prognosis as it had been like that for 2 years before they realised it was hanging on by a thread, but due to this my pec was made about an inch shorter after they cut off the dead tissue and reattached it with two titanium screws. after my follow up consultation i complained about the information on the shoulder.doc site saying 6 wks healing time and the surgeon explained its much better for a complete rupture thats been repaired straight away and that they do heal a lot quicker,and that its rare to have a partial rupture as chronic as mine, so I hope that makes you feel a bit better, yours might not take as long as mine, but still take it easy and good luck :)

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