The chest contains several key muscles that facilitate various movements and support the upper body. These muscles can be categorized into major groups based on their function and location.
Major Chest Muscles
The primary muscles located in the chest include:
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Pectoralis Major: This large, fan-shaped muscle is the most superficial of the chest muscles. It's responsible for adduction, flexion, and internal rotation of the arm at the shoulder joint.
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Pectoralis Minor: Situated beneath the pectoralis major, this smaller, triangular muscle helps stabilize the scapula (shoulder blade) and assists in actions like protraction and downward rotation of the shoulder.
Other Chest Muscles
Beyond the primary muscles, there are additional muscles that play supporting roles in the chest area:
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Serratus Anterior: This muscle is located on the side of the chest, wrapping around to the scapula. It is crucial for protraction of the scapula (moving the shoulder blade forward), keeping it flat against the rib cage, and assisting in upward rotation of the arm.
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Subclavius: A small muscle located beneath the clavicle (collarbone). It helps stabilize and depress the clavicle, and can also assist in arm movements.
Summary of Chest Muscles
| Muscle | Location | Primary Functions |
|---|---|---|
| Pectoralis Major | Superficial chest muscle | Adduction, flexion, and internal rotation of the arm. |
| Pectoralis Minor | Beneath pectoralis major | Stabilizes scapula, assists in protraction and downward rotation of the shoulder. |
| Serratus Anterior | Side of chest, wrapping around to scapula | Protraction and upward rotation of the scapula. |
| Subclavius | Beneath the clavicle | Stabilizes and depresses the clavicle; may assist in arm movement. |
These muscles work together to enable a wide range of upper body movements and provide stability to the shoulder complex. They are crucial for daily activities and athletic performance.
