Thoracic cage somatic dysfunction

Palpation and visual observation are used during osteopathic examination. Knowledge of the structure and biomechanics of the area under evaluation is integral to this process. Somatic dysfunctions restrict motion of the thoracic cage and its components. The bucket handle and pump handle movements may be limited when examined at the greatest extent of inspiration and expiration. Asymmetric excursion and difficulty in movement imply restriction of the region examined. 

This chapter describes progressive inhibition of neuromusculoskeletal structures (PINS) techniques for treating somatic dysfunctions of the thoracic cage region. The examples provided are not the only ones that are possible (Fig. 75-1 A and B). The ones shown are fairly common. Occasionally, patterns in the thoracic cage region may continue into or from adjacent regions. 

The thoracic cage plays a significant role in respiration, protection of major visceral organs of the chest, including the heart, lungs, blood vessels, and in pumping of the lymph into and out of the cysterna chyli. Freedom of motion is important for all of these functions. It is subject to a variety of traumas, infections, inflammatory processes, and somatic dysfunctions. 

Somatic dysfunction of the thorax may occur anteriorly, involving ribs, sternum, or clavicle, or posteriorly, involving costovertebral articulations or the scapulae. Muscle attachments connect the thoracic cage to the cervical spine, the thoracic spine, the lumbar spine, the innominate bones, and the upper extremities. These regions must be evaluated when problems occur in the thoracic cage. 

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See also in sourсe #XX -- [ ]

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