Dr Puah Ken Lee 潘健理
Orthopaedic Surgeon
Shoulder, Elbow & Sports Injuries
Practising at Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital, Singapore
Appointments by prior arrangement
Dr Puah Ken Lee 潘健理
Orthopaedic Surgeon
Shoulder, Elbow & Sports Injuries
Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital, Singapore
✔ Subspecialty Focus in Shoulder & Elbow, Sports Injuries
✔ Practising at Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital
✔ Evidence-based treatment, Individualised Care
Introduction
A pectoralis major tear is a significant muscle-tendon injury that typically occurs during weight training or high-impact sports. It most commonly affects active individuals performing exercises such as the bench press.
As an orthopaedic surgeon specialising in shoulder, elbow and sports injuries, Dr Puah Ken Lee provides expert diagnosis and treatment of pectoralis major tears, with a focus on restoring strength, function and return to sport.
What is a Pectoralis Major Tear?
The pectoralis major is a large muscle in the chest that attaches to the upper arm. A tear usually occurs at the tendon where it inserts into the humerus.
How Does It Happen?
This injury most often occurs during:
- Bench press (especially during the lowering phase)
- Heavy weightlifting
- Contact sports
- Sudden eccentric loading of the muscle
Patients often describe a sudden “pop” or tearing sensation.
Symptoms
- Sudden chest or upper arm pain
- Bruising over the chest or arm
- Weakness in pushing movements
- Visible deformity of the chest contour
- Loss of strength during bench press or push-ups
Why Early Diagnosis is Important
Early diagnosis allows for timely treatment. Delayed cases may result in:
- Retraction of the tendon
- Persistent weakness
- More complex surgical reconstruction
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on:
- Clinical examination
- MRI scan to confirm the extent and location of the tear
Treatment Options
Non-Surgical Treatment
Partial tears or low-demand patients may be managed without surgery. However, this may result in:
- Reduced strength
- Cosmetic deformity
- Limitations in sports performance
Surgical Repair
Surgical repair is generally recommended for:
- Complete tears
- Active individuals
- Athletes or gym users
The procedure involves reattaching the tendon to the humerus using fixation techniques.
Dr Puah is regularly invited to teach shoulder surgery internationally
Recovery After Surgery
- Sling immobilisation in the early phase
- Gradual physiotherapy programme
- Progressive strengthening
- Return to sports typically over several months
Outcomes
Most patients who undergo early surgical repair regain:
- Good strength
- Improved chest contour
- Ability to return to gym and sports activities
If you experience a sudden chest injury during exercise, early assessment is important.
Contact the clinic or book a consultation for evaluation and treatment.
Dr Puah Ken Lee is an orthopaedic surgeon in Singapore specialising in shoulder and sports injuries at 360 Orthopaedics, Mount Elizabeth Novena. Patients are encouraged to seek specialist evaluation early if a pectoralis major tear is suspected.