Anatomy, Biomechanics and Regional Interdependence of the Thorax

Introduction

The thorax is an area of the spine that has, historically, been under-explored. It can, however, be a silent contributor to many presentations in clinical practice.

One cross-sectional survey in Denmark looked at the prevalence of spinal pain. It found that in one year: LEBOEUF 13 percent of respondents had thoracic pain 43 percent had low back pain 44 percent had neck pain However, 36 to 41 percent of individuals have thoracic pain which co-exists with neck or back pain (ROQUELAURE). Thus, four in ten patients will have an associated thoracic spine condition. This is, therefore, a region that should not be ignored in physiotherapy practice. WEB