Thoracic spine stiffness and shoulder pain

Thoracic spine stiffness and shoulder pain

Thoracic Spine Stiffness and Shoulder Pain: How They Are Connected

Thoracic spine stiffness and shoulder pain are often linked. Restrictions in the thoracic spine can lead to compensations in the shoulder, causing pain and dysfunction.

The thoracic spine, located in the upper and middle back, provides stability and support to the trunk while allowing for some rotation, flexion, and extension. When the thoracic spine becomes stiff, it limits the mobility of the shoulder blades. Since the shoulder blades are connected to the ribcage, they move together with the thoracic spine during upper body movements.

Restricted shoulder blade movement can cause compensations in the shoulder joint. For example, if the shoulder blades can’t move properly, the humerus (arm bone) may impinge on the soft tissues of the shoulder during overhead movements. This can lead to rotator cuff injuries or shoulder impingement syndrome.

On the flip side, shoulder pain or dysfunction can also affect the thoracic spine. When the shoulder hurts, people often hold their arm in a protective position. This can cause the thoracic spine to stiffen, limiting its ability to rotate or extend.

To address this, you can improve both thoracic spine mobility and shoulder function. Mobilization exercises for the thoracic spine can reduce compensations in the shoulder, relieving pain and dysfunction. Likewise, treating shoulder pain can help improve thoracic spine mobility.

Below are two simple mobility exercises to help improve movement in the upper back. Move slowly, and stop or modify the exercise if you feel discomfort.

Thoracic spine stiffness and shoulder pain Thoracic spine stiffness and shoulder pain

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