IMPACT Fellow in training Dan Halfman, PT demonstrates thoracic manipulation techniques from:
Karas, Steve and Megan J. Olsen Hunt: “A randomized clinical trial to compare the immediate effects of seated thoracic manipulation and targeted supine thoracic manipulation on cervical spine flexion range of motion and pain.” Journal of Manual and Manipulative Therapy Volume 22, No.2 (2014) 108-114
Summary: Both seated (non-specific) thoracic manipulation and supine targeted thoracic manipulation were effective at reducing cervical pain and improving range of motion. However, the specific supine technique resulted in significantly greater pain reduction. The difference in ROM gained was greater with the supine technique but was not statistically significant. When possible, specific hypomobile segments should be targeted using supine thoracic manipulation techniques.