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The pectoralis minorDepressor / Protractor Under pectoralis major; pulls shoulder blade forward and downward. is a relatively inconspicuous yet vital muscle located in the anteriorThe front of the body or toward the front when standing in the anatomical position. chest wall.
Photography, text, and labels by Rob Swatski, Assistant Professor of Biology, Harrisburg Area Community College – York Campus, York, PA.
Pectoralis major Origin
The pectoralis minor muscle originates from the third to fifth ribs. Origin specifically occurs from the anterior surfaces of these ribs and their costal cartilages. The origins extend towards the cartilageA flexible connective tissue found in joints, the ear, nose, and rib cage. Cartilage can be of three of the second rib in some cases.
Pectoralis major Insertion
The muscle inserts onto the coracoid processHook-like projection anterior to the acromion; attachment for muscles of the arm and chest. of the scapulaTriangular “shoulder blade” on posterior thorax; connects clavicle and humerus.. This process is a bony projection at the front of the scapula.
Pectoralis major Actions
Scapular Stabilization
Assistance in Respiration
Depression of the Scapula
Interactive Materials
Use this 3D Viewer to Explore the Muscles of the Upper Body
“Open3DModel – Upper limb – English labels” by Open3D project, Jan Kooloos, RadboudUMC, Eungyeol Lee, LUMC et al, license: CC BY-SA
Identify More Muscles
Link to more Muscle Identification
Upper Arm Muscles
Forearm Muscles
Calf Muscles
Anterior Thigh Muscles
Posterior Thigh Muscles
Knee Structures
Chest Muscles
Back Muscles
Abdominal Muscles
Neck Muscles
Head Muscles
List of terms
- pectoralis minor
- anterior
- anatomy
- ribs
- inspiration
- cartilage
- coracoid process
- scapula