The use of functional and traditional mobilization interventions in a patient with chronic thoracic pain: a case report

Abstract

There is little information in the literature regarding the efficacy of spinal manual therapy (SMT) interventions for patients with chronic thoracic spinal pain. In addition, information regarding the clinical decision-making associated with the application of SMT for this patient population is deficient. The purpose of this case report is to present the rationale for and results of applying specific SMT interventions on a patient with chronic spinal pain. A 51-year-old female with 9 months of significant thoracic, chest, sternal, and left shoulder pain was managed with both mobilization with movement and spinal manipulative procedures. The report offers insight into the decisions that guided the selection of these SMT techniques in this case. The outcome provides preliminary support for using these specific SMT procedures in patients with chronic thoracic spinal pain.