The pectoralis minor insertion at the coracoid is the structure shortened in anterior shoulder tightness syndromes and the target of pectoralis minor stretching in scapular dyskinesia rehabilitation. Its coracoid attachment is the tether released in pectoralis minor contracture — a cause of neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome where the muscle compresses the brachial plexus between the coracoid and the rib.
| Origin | Third, fourth, and fifth costal cartilages (anterior surface) |
|---|---|
| Insertion | Medial surface of the coracoid process — superior and medial aspects |
| Nerve Supply | Medial pectoral nerve (C8, T1) |
| Blood Supply | Pectoral branch of the thoracoacromial artery |
| Actions | Tilts the scapula anteriorly (depresses the coracoid); Protracts the scapula; Elevates the ribs when the scapula is fixed — assists inspiration |
|---|
Pectoralis minor coracoid tightness produces anterior shoulder pain and scapular winging from altered scapular kinematics. In neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome from pectoralis minor compression, release of the coracoid insertion decompresses the brachial plexus. The coracoid insertion is removed with the coracoid osteotomy in the Latarjet procedure.
Palpable as the taut band beneath the anterior deltoid during resisted scapular retraction and shoulder external rotation.
Pectoralis minor coracoid insertion tightness producing scapular anterior tilt, brachial plexus compression, and anterior shoulder pain, treated by manual release and eccentric stretching of the coracoid insertion.
