Pectoralis minor
Body region:Chest and abdomen
Front shoulder pain, rounded shoulders, numbness on the inner arm
Function
Originates from ribs 3 to 5 and inserts at the coracoid process of the shoulder blade. Tilts the shoulder blade forward and downward.
Common causes
Rounded shoulder posture, lying prone for long periods, or work that keeps you leaning forward.
Massage and stretching
- Press in from the front of the armpit with the fingertips, combined with deep breathing
- Doorway stretch
Related acupoints
- Jianyu (LI15):Depression below and in front of the acromion when the arm is raised horizontally
- Danzhong (CV17):Midline of the front of the chest, midpoint between the nipples
Related meridians
Lung Meridian of Hand-Taiyin、Pericardium Meridian of Hand-Jueyin
Posture and muscle patterns
When to see a doctor:Severe abdominal pain, blood in the stool, or chest pain with pressure: seek medical care immediately. Avoid abdominal acupoints during pregnancy.