Upper Thorax Compression

Uses

How it works

Benefits

Highlighted claims

• Upper thorax compression is inferred from shoulder movement limitations. — Cervical Radiculopathy, Inverted Breathing Positions, and Movement Model Limits
• A scapula that is abducted and internally rotated can shorten posterior structures and limit internal rotation. — Shoulder Limitations, Rib Flare Positioning, and Persistent Pain Support
• Reduced anterior chest wall expansion can move the scapula into abduction and internal rotation. — Shoulder Limitations, Rib Flare Positioning, and Persistent Pain Support
• Inverted activities are recommended for the atypical mixed pattern because they support anterior and posterior expansion together. — Shoulder Limitations, Rib Flare Positioning, and Persistent Pain Support
• Shoulder internal rotation and horizontal adduction are especially important indicators of upper thorax compression. — Cervical Radiculopathy, Inverted Breathing Positions, and Movement Model Limits
• The mixed pattern of limited internal rotation and horizontal abduction with normal-looking external rotation likely reflects anterior-posterior compression in the upper thorax. — Shoulder Limitations, Rib Flare Positioning, and Persistent Pain Support
• External rotation may appear normal because thoracic or scapular compensation changes the testing orientation. — Shoulder Limitations, Rib Flare Positioning, and Persistent Pain Support
• Limitations in paired shoulder categories suggest increased anterior-to-posterior compression in the upper thorax. — Cervical Radiculopathy, Inverted Breathing Positions, and Movement Model Limits
• People with upper thorax compression may respond well to coached inverted breathing and movement activities with hips above the thorax. — Cervical Radiculopathy, Inverted Breathing Positions, and Movement Model Limits
• For a down pump-handle position with reduced posterior thorax expansion, inverted activities are proposed to improve gas exchange and expansion by supporting fuller exhalation and refilling. — Cervical Radiculopathy, Inverted Breathing Positions, and Movement Model Limits