What is the correct treatment position for posterior thoracic lateral tender points?

The correct treatment position for posterior thoracic lateral tender points involves the principles of muscle energy techniques and osteopathic manipulative treatment. For tender points located posteriorly, such as those found at the thoracic spine, the treatment approach typically requires the following positioning: flexion of the thoracic spine, sidebending away from the tender point, and rotation towards the tender point.

Flexion is employed to reduce the strain on the tissues and bring the vertebrae closer to the tender point, thus facilitating relaxation of the involved muscles. Sidebending away from the tender point helps to alleviate tension by allowing the structures around the area to relax and release excessive muscular tension. Finally, rotation towards the tender point positions the vertebrae in a manner that can further enhance the treatment's effectiveness by optimizing the biomechanical loads applied to the affected area.

This combination aligns the treatment with the osteopathic principles of treating somatic dysfunction, ultimately promoting alleviation of pain and returning the body toward homeostasis.