We’ve known for a while that thoracic spine mobility was a factor in the performance of the shoulder. That’s why we stressed the importance of regular mobilization of the thoracic spine in Inside-Out.
We now have research in support of the influence of thoracic spine mobility, and it’s effect on shoulder range of motion. Here’s a segment of the abstract:
“Title: THE EFFECT OF THORACIC STRETCHING AND MOBILIZATION ON
Place: CPRS Physical Therapy,
Results : Improvements in AROM and PROM shoulder flexion, IR, and ER were demonstrated in all treatment groups with the most significant improvements being made in AROM and PROM shoulder IR. Group 1 (SS): AROM IR change in degrees=(mean ± SD) 4.2° ± 4.4°, PROM IR change in degrees= 6° ± 4° ;Group 2 (MS): AROM IR change in degrees= 8.6° ± 6.5°, PROM IR change in degrees= 8.5° ± 6.9°; Group 3 (PS): AROM IR change in degrees= 5.2° ± 7°, PROM IR change in degrees= 6.3° ± 7.4°; Group 4 (TJM): AROM IR change in degrees= 10° ± 7.6°, PROM IR change in degrees= 5.8° ± 5.1°.
Conclusions : Based on our findings, maneuvers for addressing thoracic mobility and thoracic ROM correlate with improvements in glenohumeral ROM in each plane, with the greatest changes being made in glenohumeral IR. The most significant gains in IR ROM were made after treatment with a grade V thoracic spine mobilization. Not all changes in ROM demonstrated statistically significant changes after one treatment, however 18% average improvements in IR ROM after one treatment demonstrate clinically significant changes and the need for further research.
Clinical Relevance : Assessment and treatment of thoracic spine mobility and thoracic extension should be considered in the evaluation and treatment of decreased glenohumeral joint
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