An Effective Thoracic Extension Self-Mob
Reference:& Reference: Sahrmann SA. Diagnosis and Treatment of Movement Impairment Syndromes, St. Louis, 2002, Mosby Inc.
I have had excellent feedback from patients regarding the effectiveness of this exercise. It is both an assessment and a potential treatment IF INDICATED.
I have also found this exercise to be highly effective at maintaining thoracic extension mobility for those with mild osteoporosis or those with ?poor? posture.
i) Stand with back against the wall, heels approx. 20cm from wall, feet shoulder width apart, knees slightly flexed.
ii) Flatten the lumbar lordosis into the wall (i.e. perform a posterior pelvic tilt)?this is essential.
iii) Abduct the shoulder to 90� and try to maintain the forearms against the wall.
iv) If possible lift the arms up overhead, touching the wall and while keeping the lumbar spine flat against the wall
v) Go up as far as possible?always respecting pain?hold 5 seconds, repeat 5 times.
Note: Discontinue immediately if pain and/or paraesthesia is produced in the arms
Posted on: April 04, 2002
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