08/03/2025
Causes of pectoral muscle pain
Sudden overload
That one rep too many on the bench press, the unexpected catch when someone falls, or a forceful push that takes your chest muscle by surprise. It’s usually a moment that tips the balance from load to injury.
Poor exercise technique
Flaring your elbows on push-ups, bouncing the bar off your chest, or letting the weights control you instead of the other way around — bad form wreaks havoc on your pecs.
Repetitive desk work
Hours spent hunched at your keyboard, pulling your shoulders forward, and straining your chest muscles.
Contact sports
Rugby tackles, boxing impacts, or martial arts strikes can compress and tear your chest muscles. The force of a direct hit combined with twisting motions is particularly risky.
Rapid training increases
Jumping back into heavy chest workouts after a break or suddenly doubling your push-up routine can cause your muscles to lose their ability to adapt to new demands.
A pectoral strain might feel like it’s limited your gym progress or made everyday tasks a constant battle. While the first few weeks can test your patience, rushing back too soon is a sure way to make things worse.
Take the smart route instead — get any severe chest pain checked by a doctor, and if the issue is muscular, seek out a physiotherapist who will get you following a proper recovery plan, and start rebuilding your strength gradually.
We are always available to help. For more information, get in touch today:
Earlsfield Clinic 020 8879 1555
Wimbledon 020 8946 2800
Email enquiries@prophysiotherapy.co.uk
