The Rib Cage Mechanics: Why Your Shoulders Can’t Move Without Your Spine

Most people think shoulder tightness comes from the shoulder itself — but the real problem is usually the rib cage + thoracic spine.

Your ribs and thoracic vertebrae are the platform your shoulders rest on.

When the thoracic spine doesn’t rotate or extend, the shoulders get stuck.

🦴 The Science Behind Rib–Shoulder Movement

• Each rib attaches to a thoracic vertebra
• When ribs can’t expand → the shoulder blade can’t glide
• When the thoracic spine is stiff → shoulder impingement increases
• Poor breathing mechanics = tight shoulders + upper traps

If you want free shoulder motion, you must first unlock the rib cage.

🌬️ Try This: Rib Expansion Drill (1 Minute)

1️⃣ Lie on your back

2️⃣ Wrap a band gently around your rib cage

3️⃣ Inhale through nose → feel ribs expand sideways

4️⃣ Exhale → ribs melt toward floor

5️⃣ Repeat for 10 slow breaths

This opens the thoracic area and instantly improves shoulder mobility.

“My shoulder pain didn’t go away until I learned to breathe into my ribs.”