Thoracic Counter Strain

Question 1

Difference between anterior and posterior tender points

Answer 1

Anterior

• pain is diffuse
• usually the patient has a history of comfort in flexion
• injury is often associated with rapid extension from a flexed position
• can show kyphosis
• treated in flexion
• stretches are in extension

Posterior

• pain is specific
• usually the patient has a history of comfort in extension
• injury is often assocaited w/ rapid flexion from an extended position
• shows decreased curves in thoracic spine
• treated w/ extension
• stretches are in flexion

Question 2

How far must the hips and knees be flexed minimally when treating AT9-12

Answer 2

Knees = 90 degrees

Hips = 135 degrees

Question 3

What muscles are the posterior counter strain points associated with?

Answer 3

Multifidus and the Rotatores (both Long and short)

Also some of the levatores and Multifidus (not until about T7 though)