THORACIC SPINE ⠀ [ANATOMY & FUNCTION] ⠀ The thoracic spine is the longest region of the spine, and by some measures it is also the most complex. Connecting with the cervical spine above and the lumbar spine below, the thoracic spine runs from the base of the neck down to the abdomen. It is the only spinal region attached to the rib cage. ⠀ The thoracic spine has 12 vertebrae stacked on top of each other, labeled from T1 down to T12. These vertebrae form the foundation of the thoracic region’s sturdy spinal column that supports the neck above, the rib cage, soft tissues, flexible joints, blood vessels, and nerves. ⠀ The thoracic spine is built from its anatomical structure to be mobile for rotation, flexion and extension! That's why it is very important to keep it mobile and even to visualise and feel the possible movement in the thoracic spine. ⠀ Many people don't even know or just are not able to feel that there is a specific movement possible. But it has to be known because the thoracic spine must be used and must be moved! If people are unable to visualise and feel the movement of the thoracic spine, they will find another way to get that motion from somewhere else like lumbar spine, cervical spine or shoulder blades because our body is smart and very good in compensating. Those areas of compensation might lead to poor movement patterns, overuse and pain! ⠀ An immobility or stiffness in the thoracic spine can lead to rounded shoulders, shoulder pain, elbow pain, wrist pain, neck pain, lower back pain and even hip pain. Thats why it is very important to include mobilization exercises and stretching exercises in your daily training routine!