Descending Pectoral

This week we are focusing on the Descending Pectoral.

L O C A T I O N:
Slightly overlaps the cranial (top) edge of the transverse pectoral. It originates at the Manubrium of the sternum and ends at the deltoid tuberosity and crest of the humerus.
There is a groove between the descending pectoral muscle and brachiocephalic muscle that contains the cephalic vein; this area must avoid pressure.

F U N C T I O N:
Supports the limb, draw back the limb inward, draw the limb forward or backward according to its position, and draw the trunk sideward.

S Y M P T O M S  O F  P A I N:
- Objection to palpation along the sternum
- Scapula does not naturally rotate forwards so the thoracic limb is held closer to the midline
- Tender to palpation
-Sensitive to girth
- Hypertonicity (tight cords) or lumpiness in the muscle

Tune in next week! We'll be talking about the Ascending Pectorals. Once we get through all four of the muscles in this group, we'll put it all together in what it can mean for your horse and his/her performance.