I don’t use a ton of manipulations in my practice, but I do find this thoracic manipulation to be helpful for individuals with mid-back pain/tightness, neck pain and some shoulder issues.
The effects of manipulations are usually temporary in nature, so we would follow this technique with mobility exercises that a person can perform on their own and exercises that activate and strengthen the muscles in the intrascapular region.
If you have mid-back, neck, or shoulder pain, you can mobilize your thoracic spine on your own with a foam roller. The programs in my new book show you how to do this. Click the link in my bio to learn more about the book.
This video is not meant to be a tutorial. Please do not try this technique if you are not a trained professional.
References:
1. Cross KM, et al. Thoracic spine thrust manipulation improves pain, range of motion, and self-reported function in patients with mechanical neck pain: a systematic review. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2011.
2. Boyles RE, et al. The short-term effects of thoracic spine thrust manipulation on patients with shoulder impingement syndrome. Man Ther. 2009.
