In this episode, Susan and Erica discuss the many ways the thorax can be the driver for a multitude of upper and lower extremity issues. 

This important region of the body tends to cause a lot of movement dysfunction we often see. 

As an example, the thorax is an important component in driving foot pain as well as issues in the pelvic girdle. 

Suppose you can get the thorax to move differently. In that case, this can help people down-train old movement patterns that do not serve them and ultimately restore global movement patterning across many tasks. 

Key point: The thorax can be a key driver, in how someone transfers load after an injury (no matter when that injury took place). It is a region of the body that compensates for pain and dysfunction elsewhere and then ends up being the driver years later. Don’t miss it.

A glance at this episode:

• [3:26] Thoracic mobility and breath control for pain relief
• [11:19] Breathing and muscle release techniques for thoracic spine mobility
• [14:26] Using sensory input with a theraband for thoracic mobility
• [19:19] Using closed kinetic chain exercises for thoracic mobility and abdominal strength
• [23:49] Assessing and treating shoulder injuries
• [29:23] Thoracic mobility and its impact on movement patterns
• [34:20] Thoracic rotation and breathing exercises for runners
• [43:05] Reintegrating movement patterns for whole-body wellness
• [47:42] Exercise and posture for older adults
• [52:12] Posture and movement for homeschooling and virtual work

Related links:

• Tough To Treat Website
• Erica’s Course: Decoding the Complex Patient
• Susan’s Pelvic Health Education Subscription
• Access the Transcript