The thoracic spine, the part of the spine that starts just below the neck to half-way down the back, is often a neglected part of the body, which is surprising considering that it is as prone to stiffness
as other parts of the spine, but not so surprising since it is a difficult area of the body to stretch.
A stiff thoracic spine can cause pain between the shoulder blades but can also cause excess loading of the lumbar spine, the neck and shoulders, which in turn can lead to pain in these areas as well as headaches. In really extreme cases, a stiff thoracic spine can lead to an unsightly condition known as Dowager’s (or Bison’s) Hump, which is a thickening of the soft tissues at the base of the neck.
Like so many other modern-day problems resulting from work, people who spend hours either in the car or sitting poorly in front of computer screens are particularly prone to thoracic stiffness, and the attendant problems this can cause. People with poor posture are also at risk. On a more general level, since the thoracic spine provides much of the rotation and extension of the spine required for athletes, anyone that plays sport is likely to find their movement restricted and performance limited by stiffness in this part of the spine. Injuries in other parts of the body may well follow as a result.
Our Chiropractors and Occupational Therapists will take a thorough history and provide a physical exam. After the assessment, we will develop a plan to correct the underlying problems, through a combination of spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapies, exercise programs and ergonomic advice. Exercise and rehabilitation are very important to prevent the pain from becoming chronic, and the thoracic curvature and stiffness from progressing.
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PLAN FOR RELAXATION