Thoracic Rotation (Seated)
Setup
Client seated on a bench or chair WITHOUT a backrest. Feet flat on the floor, hip width apart. Arms crossed over chest (each hand on opposite shoulder). This locks the shoulders and isolates thoracic rotation. Camera positioned directly in front.
Cueing
Step 1: 'Without moving your hips or knees, rotate your entire upper body to the LEFT as far as you can.' Step 2: Hold 2 seconds. Step 3: Return center. Step 4: Repeat RIGHT. Compensation signs: pelvis rotation (knees shifting), cervical rotation leading instead of thoracic, side bending. Place a dowel across the shoulders if needed to visualize rotation angle. Pressure: 0/10.
Measurement
Angle of shoulder line rotation relative to the hip line. Use dowel across shoulders and observe against a fixed reference behind the client. Normal: 35-50 degrees each way. Record L/R.
Modality
FAQ
What muscles does Thoracic Rotation (Seated) work?
Thoracic Rotation (Seated) primarily targets the T Spine. It is classified as a professional-level assessment test.
How do you perform Thoracic Rotation (Seated) correctly?
Client seated on a bench or chair WITHOUT a backrest. Feet flat on the floor, hip width apart. Arms crossed over chest (each hand on opposite shoulder). This locks the shoulders and isolates thoracic rotation. Camera positioned directly in front. Step 1: 'Without moving your hips or knees, rotate your entire upper body to the LEFT as far as you can.' Step 2: Hold 2 seconds. Step 3: Return center. Step 4: Repeat RIGHT. Compensation signs: pelvis rotation (knees shifting), cervical rotation leading instead of thoracic, side bending. Place a dowel across the shoulders if needed to visualize rotation angle. Pressure: 0/10.
What equipment is needed for Thoracic Rotation (Seated)?
Thoracic Rotation (Seated) requires Assessment Kit. It is categorized as a Range of Motion assessment test.
Related Exercises
Anterior Rib Angle (ARA) Assessment
Apical Rib Angle
Infrasternal Angle (ISA)
Lower Chest Expansion
Rib Cage Expansion Asymmetry (Breathing Under Load)
Sidelying Rib Cage Expansion Assessment
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