Pain in your pectoral, or chest, muscles for a prolonged period can be the sign of an injury or other underlying medical condition. At times, this pain can seem like it is stemming from your muscle; however the true cause for concern may be related to your cardiac health. Speak to your doctor for more information on chest pain and possible treatment options for your specific condition.
Anatomy
According to the Core Performance website, you pectoral muscles are the large, highly-visible muscles located on either side of your chest. The primary job of your pectorals are to help move your arms up and down or laterally. Because these muscles are two of the largest in your body, muscle strains or injuries are less likely to occur in comparison to smaller body muscles; however, this does not mean that injury will never occur.
Muscle Strain
One potential cause of prolonged pain in your pectorals is due to a muscle strain. According to Core Performance, a muscle strain or tear can be classified into three grades: Grade 1, which includes small microtears in your muscles; Grade 2, which involve more torn fibers, some loss of strength, and a longer rehab period; and Grade 3, which are uncommon, but carry debilitating long-term effects.
Cardiac Pains
According to MayoClinic.com, pain in your chest can also be the sign of cardiac health conditions and could be a cause for medical concern. Symptoms related to cardiac medical conditions include a feeling of pressure or tightness in your chest, crushing or searing pain throughout your chest, neck, and back, or shortness of breath or difficulty breathing accompanied with chest pain. These symptoms can radiate throughout your pectoral area causing you to believe that the pain is muscle-related.
Pneumonia
MedlinePlus identifies pneumonia as another medical condition that may cause pain in your pectoral or chest region for a prolonged period. Symptoms of pneumonia include sharp chest pains that worsen when you inhale deeply or cough. This condition is caused by a build-up of fluid in your lungs, thus leading to pain and difficulty breathing.
