Shoulder · Joints, stiffness & other
Pectoralis minor release
Pectoralis Minor Tightness with Shoulder Blade Dysfunction
The condition
The pectoralis minor is a small muscle that runs from the upper ribs to the front of the shoulder blade (the coracoid). When it is tight or scarred, it tips the shoulder blade, causing pain at the front of the shoulder, poor shoulder-blade motion, and occasionally pinching of the nerves/blood vessels which can cause numbness, tingling, or fatigue.
The surgery
Pectoralis minor release is a typically outpatient surgery done through a small small open incision. The tight tendon is released from the coracoid so the shoulder blade can settle into a better position. Nothing is repaired, so motion begins right away. Immediate quality rehab is critical to success of the surgery.
Recovery at a glance
- Sling
- For comfort only, 1–2 weeks. There are no motion restrictions.
- Daily life
- Motion and stretching exercises start 2 days after surgery, with full motion by 2–3 weeks. Desk work often within the first week. No driving while taking narcotic pain medication.
- Lifting & overhead
- Full strengthening begins at 2 weeks. Heavy and overhead lifting wait until the shoulder blade is stable, typically ~3 months.
- Sports
- Full activity and sports at 2–3 months. Daily stretching is what protects your result—stiffness is the main risk.
A general guide. Your restrictions and timeline may change based on what is found and done at surgery.
Risks & benefits
Benefits: Most patients have less pain and better shoulder-blade position and motion. Risks are uncommon and include infection, blood clots, incomplete relief or return of symptoms, scar tissue re-forming if stretching is not kept up, temporary nerve irritation (numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arm), injury to nearby structures (such as nerves, blood vessels, or cartilage), stiffness, persistent pain, and the need for further surgery. These will be reviewed with you in detail before surgery.
Patient Surgical Information
Open, save or print. Bring your questions to your pre-op visit.
Before & after every surgery