Overview

AI, Data Science & Cloud Certificates from Google, IBM & Meta — 40% Off

One plan covers every Professional Certificate on Coursera. 40% off Coursera Plus Annual.

Limited upper back mobility can affect much more than posture. It may restrict shoulder motion, reduce breathing efficiency, limit rotation, increase compensation, and hold back performance in daily movement, exercise, and sport. By the end of this course, learners will understand how to assess thoracic mobility and apply corrective strategies that support better posture, breathing mechanics, movement control, and functional performance. Presented by athletic trainer Eric Beard, this course focuses on the thoracic spine and its role in shoulder function, core stability, rotation, and whole-body movement. Learners explore how restrictions in this region can influence overhead motion, spinal mechanics, and movement quality. Through clear demonstrations and practical programming examples, learners study thoracic mobility assessments, rotation and overhead movement screens, mobility tools, manual therapy concepts, corrective exercise progressions, regressions, and reassessment strategies. Healthcare and fitness professionals will gain practical tools for evaluation and program design, while non-clinical learners will better understand how upper back mobility affects comfort and performance. This course offers an integrated approach to improving mobility by combining assessment, targeted training, and ongoing reassessment.

Syllabus

Thoracic Mobility Assessment and Corrective Programming: Part 1

In this module, Eric Beard explores the anatomy, structure, and biomechanical function of the thoracic spine. He highlights the thoracic spine’s vital role in posture, load transfer, and healthy movement between the cervical and lumbar regions. The lesson covers the architecture of the thoracic vertebrae, the articulation with the ribs, and the implications of different spinal regions (upper, mid, lower thoracic) for mobility and stability. Students learn how dysfunction in thoracic rotation and extension often leads to compensatory stress in the lumbar spine and shoulder girdle.

Thoracic Mobility Assessment and Corrective Programming: Part 2

This module introduces the concepts of form closure, soft tissue health, and neuromuscular control, providing a foundational understanding for identifying dysfunction and planning corrective exercise strategies. By the end of this session, learners will appreciate how thoracic mobility impacts breathing, spinal integrity, and global movement efficiency.

Thoracic Mobility Assessment and Corrective Programming - Practical Work

Building on the anatomical foundations from Module 1 and 2, this practical session focuses on assessing and improving thoracic mobility in clients and athletes. Using a live model, Eric Beard demonstrates how to evaluate posture, breathing patterns, and thoracic movement through both static and dynamic assessments, including visual observation, the Apley Scratch Test, and the overhead squat. He explains how restrictions in thoracic rotation, stiffness in the rib cage, and dysfunctional breathing patterns affect overall performance and shoulder health. Learners are guided to identify asymmetries, compensations, and kinetic chain interactions that influence thoracic mobility. The module concludes with strategies for selecting targeted corrective and breathing exercises to restore optimal motion and integration throughout the kinetic chain.

Reflective Learning

This final exam is designed to assess your understanding of the key concepts presented throughout the course. Please review all video lessons and written materials before beginning. A passing score of 70% or higher is required to successfully complete the course and earn your CE certificate. You may reference your notes during the exam. Once you pass, your certificate will be available for immediate download.