Stretch of the Month - The Thoracic Opener

Open your chest and mid-back with the thoracic opener stretch!

This month’s stretch of the Month, the thoracic opener, is demonstrated by junior practitioner Tyler. It’s another great stretch for those with back pain or tightness in the shoulder area.

How to do the Thoracic Opener

Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor

Place the foam roller horizontally beneath your shoulder blades, bring your hands behind your head for support, close in the elbows

Gently lean back over the roller, opening your chest and upper back

Roll slightly back and forth in slow, controlled motions taking slow deep breaths in and out

With each exhale let your body relax and ease deeper into the stretch. Stay within your comfort zone, don’t try to force it. Over time as your mobility gets better you’ll be able to extend further back over the roller

What are the benefits of the thoracic opener?

The thoracic opener is designed to release tightness in the chest and the mid-back. By improving mobility in the thoracic spine, an area that often becomes stiff from sitting, driving or working at a desk. This stretch not only helps reduce stiffness but also supports better posture.

Tyler is available for appointments at the Kentish Town clinic, to find out what your first treatment might look like, click here and to find out more about Tyler read his introductory post.