10. Pectoralis Minor

Origin: Anterior surface of ribs 3-5 near their costal cartilages

Insertion: Coracoid process

Action:

• Tilts scapula anteriorly/protracts scapula
• Accessory muscle of inspiration (elevates ribs 3-5)

Innervation: Medial pectoral nerve (C8/T1)

Needling

Position: Supine

Palpation: Palpate the coracoid process – Laterally rotate the shoulder to ensure you are on the coracoid and not the shoulder joint

Technique: Bracket the coracoid process with your fingers either medial to lateral or superior to inferior – Needle perpendicular between your finger bracket towards the coracoid process using it as a bony backdrop

Caution: High – lung field is directly inferior and medial to the coracoid process – Note that the position of the lung field in relation to the coracoid process may change depending on the position of the patient’s shoulder