IMPROVING RANGE OF MOTION AFTER BREAST CANCER: PART III - The Rib Cage and Thoracic Spine
As a Physiotherapist who specializes in looking after people going through and following Breast Cancer - there is a very common physical issue that occurs after treatment but is not often discussed. And that is stiffness of the rib cage and upper back.
Following the trauma of Breast Cancer treatment like surgery or radiation, it is typical that you will subconsciously (or consciously!) protect your chest wall or breast. Protection of the chest wall usually involves the shoulder pulling forward. This ultimately leads to a rounded upper back which can create stiffness in the rib cage and thoracic spine.
Watch this video to learn how you can improve the mobility of your rib cage and upper back using a simple tool - the foam roller. Improving the mobility in these areas will increase shoulder range of motion, posture, trunk rotation and your ability to take a deep breath!
Precaution: If you have very low bone mineral density (osteoporosis) please discuss the safety of performing this exercise with your GP or Medical Team prior to attempting it.
LINKS - Foam Roller
https://www.opchealth.com.au/foam-roller
RELATED PLAYLIST: RANGE OF MOVEMENT VIDEOS
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=atSl_TH6gZQ&list=PLjQRo6uAU0yV0R2o4dy_d-nH2hukSLpNL
-
Category
No comments found