Lung function in relation to thoracic spinal mobility and kyphosis

Mobility and kyphosis of the thoracic spine were correlated with lung function in 185 men and 87 women not suffering from respiratory disease. Curvatures of the spine were measured goniometrically with inclinometers and a compass, and lung function by spirometry. Vital capacity and forced expiratory volume in 1 sec had significant positive correlations only with forward and lateral flexion. The strongest correlations were with forward flexion (r = 0.16 to 0.24, p less than 0.05). The results and possible advantages of mobilizing the thoracic spine in pathological conditions of the lungs and the spine are discussed.