This week, I had the pleasure to present on thoracic mobility to a group of University of Western States (UWS) students. Thoracic mobility is critical for posture, movement, and respiration. It also feeds the cervical spine and provides a strong foundation for shoulder mobility and stability.
Together we performed a Thoracic Mobility Evaluation. This multisegmental rotation assessment is a part of the Selective Functional Movement Assessment (SFMA). Developed by Gray Cook and colleagues, the SFMA is meant to be used in a diagnostic capacity for musculoskeletal assessment when pain is present. It’s a clinical model used to assist diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal disorders by identifying dysfunctions in movement patterns.
The assessment tests the rotational mobility of the patient’s neck, trunk, pelvis, hips, knees, and feet. It can help identify mobility limitations or stability dysfunction.
To conduct the assessment, the patient does the following:
- Stands with their feet together and toes pointed forward.
- Rotates their entire body as far as they can to the right, keeping their feet stationary.
- Repeat to the left.
During the presentation, I highlighted the following:
- Spinal Medicine Ball for improving segmental, multi-directional joint mobility.
- The Twister for improving global joint mobility.
I continue to be impressed with the quality of students at UWS. I’m so thankful to have this esteemed health science university in our backyard. I have been adjunct faculty at UWS for 8 years, offering students an opportunity to gain real world experience in local clinics as they finish up their education.