Thoracic spine rotation is used in long-axis swimming. Therefore, understanding the biomechanical demand of this motion is mandatory to understand the optimal hydrodynamics.
Unfortunately, the thoracic spine is rarely researched due to the low volume of injuries at this region. Simply comparing the thoracic spine to other areas is unjust, as the thoracic spine has many differences from the rest of the spine, most notably the ribs.
This study attempted to demonstrate the amount of trunk rotation and lateral flexion of the thoracic spine at each segment using three-dimensional imaging.
What was done
Thirteen healthy male volunteers without a history of back pain underwent low-dose computed tomography (CT) scans for three positions. These subjects were scanned while lying down, with their arms above their head, and with their pelvis tightly fixed to the table. Then, they were instructed to actively rotate their shoulder girdles along the axis of the body trunk.
Results
The maximum rotation at one side was 24.9 degrees with 7.6 degrees coupled lateral flexion in the same direction as the axial rotation and 1.8 degrees of flexion. Each vertebral segment had a range of 1.2 – 2.7 degrees of rotation from T1 – T12. The largest amount of axial rotation was noted from T6 – T11. The amount of lateral flexion ranged from -0.1 – 2.0 degrees. Couples translations were rarely observed in any direction.
Discussion
The middle segments of the thoracic spine demonstrated the most movement in this study. The shoulder blades cover T2 – T7 and potentially inhibit range of motion.
Practical Implication
In swimming, improving thoracic spine range of motion may improve an athlete’s ability to rotate their shoulders. Therefore, segments T6 – T11 should be targeted for maximal improvement. Although the optimal amount of thoracic spine rotation mobility in swimming has not yet been determined, INSERT CONCLUSION (I assume you still recommend doing t spine mobility work, mention here)
Related Reading
4- Stage Thoracic Rotational Mobility Progressions Video
Reference:
- Fujimori T, Iwasaki M, Nagamoto Y, Ishii T, Kashii M, Murase T, Sugiura T, Mastuo Y, Sugamoto K, Yoshikawa H. Kinematics of the Thoracic Spine in Trunk Rotation: In vivo Three-dimensional Analysis.Spine (Phila Pa 1976). 2012 Jul 4. [Epub ahead of print]
Comments 3
Really great article.
This is what I coach, thoracic spine understanding and application in training!
So do you recommend thoracic done mobilization? What was the conclusion?
Maximal improvement of a sub-maximal rotation. All swimmers have different levels of rotation depending on where you actually measure that. There is not an optimal rotation point and over rotating is a negative from a velocity and injury prevention perspective. Basic land based specific exercise is more than enough to manage the rotation needed in long axis swimming.