Which of the following actions is associated with the clavicular head of the pectoralis major?

Which of the following actions is associated with the clavicular head of the pectoralis major?

• A. Shoulder extension
• B. Shoulder flexion
• C. Shoulder adduction
• D. Shoulder medial rotation

Answer: (B)

The clavicular head of the pectoralis major is primarily involved in shoulder flexion. This muscle head originates from the medial half of the clavicle and, when activated, plays a crucial role in lifting the arm forward, which is the definition of shoulder flexion. The actions related to the pectoralis major as a whole include medial rotation and adduction of the shoulder, but these movements are primarily attributed to the sternal head. The distinction is important; while the entire pectoralis major contributes to these actions, the specific role of the clavicular head is most pronounced in flexing the shoulder joint, especially when the arm is moved from a position of extension to flexion. Thus, the association of shoulder flexion with the clavicular head of the pectoralis major accurately reflects its anatomical function and contribution to arm movement.

The clavicular head of the pectoralis major is primarily involved in shoulder flexion. This muscle head originates from the medial half of the clavicle and, when activated, plays a crucial role in lifting the arm forward, which is the definition of shoulder flexion.

The actions related to the pectoralis major as a whole include medial rotation and adduction of the shoulder, but these movements are primarily attributed to the sternal head. The distinction is important; while the entire pectoralis major contributes to these actions, the specific role of the clavicular head is most pronounced in flexing the shoulder joint, especially when the arm is moved from a position of extension to flexion.

Thus, the association of shoulder flexion with the clavicular head of the pectoralis major accurately reflects its anatomical function and contribution to arm movement.