Back Pain and Thoracic Mobility
Video by Dr. Trent Yeomans
Boosting thoracic mobility is important for your overall health and reducing pain. The thoracic spine, found in the upper and middle back, is key for good posture, breathing, and movement. When this area is stiff, it can cause discomfort, especially in the neck and lower back. Better mobility in the thoracic spine helps align the shoulders and neck, reducing strain and tension. In a study done by Park et al. they looked at the effect of thoracic extension exercises on body alignment and shoulder function. They found a significant effect on decreased pain, increased range of motion of the spine and shoulder joint, and improved function. This is particularly beneficial for those who sit for long periods or do repetitive tasks. Incorporating stretches and exercises that focus on thoracic mobility, like rotations and extensions, can ease tightness and enhance posture. By working on this often-neglected area, you can improve comfort and support a healthier lifestyle. Here is a great exercise that gets the shoulders moving and opens the thoracic spine.
“Thoracic kyphosis is defined as an anteriorly tilted, downwardly rotated, and protracted scapular posture and indicates a decrease in elevation of the glenohumeral joint in a patient with subacromial impingement syndrome (SIS). As thoracic kyphosis can affect complex shoulder functions, treatments for a neutral thoracic spine can improve shoulder pain and function in patients with SIS”
Park SJ, Kim SH, Kim SH. Effects of Thoracic Mobilization and Extension Exercise on Thoracic Alignment and Shoulder Function in Patients with Subacromial Impingement Syndrome: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Study. Healthcare. 2020; 8(3):316. https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare8030316
Our Message
When you are looking for a Chiropractor near you that you can trust, choose one who will not only get rid of your back pain, neck pain, or headaches but who will also guide you to living a healthier lifestyle to keep you out of pain. Our East Dallas Doctors, located in Lakewood at the corner of Mockingbird Ln. and Abrams Rd., are here to teach you that taking care of your mental health and getting the proper nutrients are just as important as the chiropractic adjustment to stay healthy.
