One of the key secrets to freeing up cchroic shoulder probelms is by cncentrating on increasing thoracic spine and rib cage moblity. This is a key neglected area in a lot of rehab programs. Below are two of my favorite ways to open up the spine with stretching and get your cleints on the fast track to feeling better. Don’t forget to submit for therapeutic exercise codes and the Foam Rollers. Thoracic spine soft tissue work. Using a Foam Roller lie back on the floor and put the foam roller under the thoracic spine. Have the patient hug themselves so their shoulder-blades shift to the side. Keep feet flat and glutes off the floor. Roll back & forth. Stay away from neck and lower back. Lean on the left and right sides to exert more pressure. This should be done on a daily basis. For patients that can’t tolerate the foam roller use ‘The Stick’ as a replacement therapy. Thoracic Spine Soft Tissue Work with Tennis Balls. Same exercise as the first one with the foam roller but using 2 tennis balls inside a sock or wrapped in athletic tape. Perform sit-ups with the thoracic spine between the 2 tennis balls. Head goes against the floor on each rep. Crossed-arm grip. Elbows up. Move the tennis balls up every 3 reps. Stay away from the lower back & neck. Show patients how do these on a daily basis and watch the changes. Dr. Perry Nickelston, DC1-973-80-6570 www.painlasercenter.com drperr@painlasercenter.com
Tags: General by Dr. Perry
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