From the Guidelines
Managing a torn pectoral muscle requires immediate rest and medical attention, with a focus on relative rest to decrease repetitive loading of the damaged muscle, as recommended by the American Family Physician in 2005 1. When managing a torn pectoral muscle, it is essential to prioritize rest and avoid activities that may exacerbate the injury.
- Apply ice to the injured area for 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours during the first 48-72 hours to reduce swelling and pain.
- Take over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen (400-600mg every 6-8 hours) or naproxen (220-440mg twice daily) to manage pain and inflammation.
- Keep the arm on the injured side immobilized in a sling to prevent further damage. Complete tears, especially in the tendon area, often require surgical repair within 2-3 weeks of injury for optimal outcomes, while partial tears may heal with conservative treatment, emphasizing the importance of relative rest as a crucial component of treatment, as noted in the study 1. Physical therapy is crucial for recovery, typically starting 4-6 weeks after injury or surgery, progressing from gentle range-of-motion exercises to gradual strengthening. Full recovery takes 3-6 months, with return to sports or heavy lifting only when you've regained full strength and range of motion. The pectoralis major muscle is important for arm movement and chest strength, so proper healing is essential to prevent long-term weakness or deformity. Seek immediate medical evaluation for any suspected tear, as prompt diagnosis through physical examination and imaging (MRI) will determine the appropriate treatment approach, and relative rest should be encouraged to reduce activity and decrease repetitive loading of the damaged muscle, as recommended by the American Family Physician 1.