Upper and Lower Crossed Syndromes. Permission Joseph E. Muscolino. Artwork: Giovanni Rimasti.

Thoracic Hyperkyphosis – The Critical Component of Upper Crossed Syndrome

For most of our clients who present with the postural distortion pattern known as upper crossed syndrome, it is important, perhaps absolutely necessary, to include thoracic spinal joint mobilization technique into extension as part of the treatment plan to address the thoracic hyperkyphosis.

extension mobilization stretch for the thoracic spine on an exercise ball

The Thoracic Spine… The Silent Saboteur

There is an old saying that no posture is bad unless you get stuck in it. The problem is that the thoracic spine often does get stuck in bad posture.

Locked short muscles / locked long muscles in upper crossed syndrome and lower crossed syndrome

Locked Short Muscles – Locked Long Muscles

Two opposing muscle groups, the “facilitated” muscles that are locked short and the “inhibited” muscles that are locked long.