Stretch of the Week: Thoracic Extension with Rotation
By Amanda Gallow, DPT, SCS
AZOPT Buckeye Physical Therapist
Stretch Type: Dynamic
How to Perform: Place a small towel roll or foam roller along the upper portion of your back. With your knees bent and hands behind your head, gently arch your upper back over the roller. While maintaining your upper back over the roller, slowly let your knees fall side to side. Repeat about 10 times, then move the roller to another location along your upper back and repeat.
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Why Perform This Stretch: This is dynamic stretch to address mobility of your thoracic spine (upper back) and rib cage. This mobility technique assists in rotation of your thoracic spine and rib cage, which is important in most upper extremity sports. Be cautious to keep your lower abdominal muscles engaged so you don’t feel this in your lower back.
