🙈 CAN A TIGHT UPPER BACK AND SPINE LEAD TO LOW BACK & SHOULDER PAIN? 

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1️⃣SHOULDER MOBILITY
A tight thoracic spine can limit the range of motion for the shoulder, specifically lifting overhead by changing the position of the shoulder blade on the rib cage. (Crossfit, overhead squat anyone?)
2️⃣POSTURE
If you have a stiff thoracic spine, the natural curvature of the T-spine increases, thereby making the ability to extend (straighten up) and rotate is compromised. This leads to forward head posture (and text neck) which can be associated with neck pain (and headaches).
3️⃣LOW BACK
Because of this increase of rounded thoracic spine (kyphotic), like a domino effect, it affect the lumbar spine (low back), also increasing its rounded nature (lordosis). Therefore, the pelvis often ends up in an anterior tilt, which may lead to low back discomfort and/or pain.
4️⃣BREATHING
The more stuck the ribs and spine are, the more difficult it will be for diaphragm to contract and allow for optimal oxygen intake. This can affect optimal brain function (as the brain needs a need helping of oxygen to function) and physical performance (the muscles, tissues, blood etc need oxygen i.e. sports, exercise).