Limited trunk rotation
What it usually means, what is likely tight and weak, and a routine that helps. Also called stiff mid back, thoracic rotation.
In short
Turning the upper body to one side, hips square, is limited. The mid back (thoracic spine) normally supplies most of this rotation.
Why it matters
Most turning should come from the mid back. When it is stiff, the neck and low back turn more to make up for it.
Usually tight
- · Obliques (opposite side)
- · Lats
- · Chest
Usually weak
- · Mid back rotators
- · Obliques
Other things that can cause it
- · A stiff mid back from long sitting
- · Rib or back pain
A corrective routine for limited trunk rotation
Done in this order: calm what is tight, lengthen it, then strengthen what should be doing more. Daily for 3 to 6 weeks is a good start.
Myofascial release
Dynamic stretch
Strengthen
Everyday habit
Every hour at a desk, sit tall, cross your arms and turn slowly each way five times.
How long it takes
Mid back rotation often improves in 2 to 4 weeks, with steady work. Re-check every 2 to 4 weeks.
How Kentro checks it
It shows up in the standing trunk rotation part of the scan: face the camera, feet hip width, arms crossed on your chest, hips stay facing forward. Kentro measures each side separately, so you see which side it is and whether it is improving between scans.
When to see a professional
See a doctor or physical therapist if you have pain that is sharp, getting worse or lasts more than a couple of weeks, numbness, tingling or weakness, pain after a fall or injury, or pain at night. This guide is general education for healthy adults, not a diagnosis or treatment plan.
Do you have it? Find out free.
Prop your phone against a wall. Kentro checks limited trunk rotation and the rest of your posture and movement, then builds your routine.
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