Condition Postural Dysfunction Benchmarked

Rounded Upper Back (Thoracic Kyphosis)

Excessive thoracic flexion creating a rounded upper back. Driven by pec tightness, scapular protraction, rib cage depression, weak thoracic extensors, and sustained flexed postures. Upstream driver for forward head posture and shoulder impingement.

6
ROM Tests
4
Corrective Priorities
4
Risk Factors
4
Red Flags

Key ROM Tests

1 Thoracic Extension
2 Thoracic Rotation Seated
3 Shoulder Horizontal Abduction
4 Scapular Position
5 Infrasternal Angle
6 Diaphragmatic Assessment

Risk Factors Assessed

Thoracic Extension
Thoracic Rotation Seated
Shoulder Horizontal Abduction
Scapular Position

Expected Timeline

8-16 weeks for mild, 16-24 weeks for moderate, 24+ weeks for Scheuermann's or chronic structural

Frequently Asked Questions

Can rounded upper back (thoracic kyphosis) be corrected with exercise?
Typical improvement timeline is 8-16 weeks for mild, 16-24 weeks for moderate, 24+ weeks for Scheuermann's or chronic structural. The protocol includes 4 prioritized corrective interventions and screens for red flags that require medical referral.
What assessments are done for rounded upper back (thoracic kyphosis)?
The protocol assesses Thoracic Extension, Thoracic Rotation Seated, Shoulder Horizontal Abduction, Scapular Position. Each test identifies the specific driver of the condition, guiding the corrective sequence.
Is rounded upper back (thoracic kyphosis) the same for everyone?
No. The assessment differentiates structural from functional causes and identifies the individual's primary driver. The corrective plan is ordered by priority, with the highest-leverage corrections addressed first.
How do I get started with the Rounded Upper Back (Thoracic Kyphosis) protocol?
Apply for an assessment through AKMI. Your coach will run the Rounded Upper Back (Thoracic Kyphosis) protocol as part of your initial structural evaluation, then build a personalized corrective plan based on the findings.

Get your Rounded Upper Back (Thoracic Kyphosis) assessment

Your coach runs this protocol as part of your structural evaluation, then builds a personalized corrective plan based on the data.

Apply for Assessment

Protocol Details

Category
Condition
Subcategory
Postural Dysfunction
ROM Tests
6
Corrective Targets
4
Benchmarked
Yes
Red Flag Screens
4
Timeline
8-16 weeks for mild, 16-24 weeks for moderate, 24+ weeks for Scheuermann's or chronic structural
Free Pain Assessment

Take our 2-minute quiz to identify your pain patterns and get a personalized correction plan.

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