Cyriax Release Maneuver

Authors

Affiliations

Nathaniel Yomogida, B.S., SPT

Doctor of Physical Therapy

B.S. in Kinesiology

Chloë Kerstein, B.S., SPT

Doctor of Physical Therapy

B.A. in Neuroscience

Technique

• The patient is seated with elbows flexed to 90°
• Place towels under elbows to created passive shoulder girdle elevation
• Support the patient’s spine and instruct them to maintain a neutral head position
• The forearms and wrists are positioned in neutral
• Hold this position until peripheral symptoms are produced
• Patient should allow symptoms to occur as tolerated up to 30 minutes
• Observe for symptom decrease over time¹

Cyriax Maneuver from Hooper et al.¹

Indications

• Helps with thoracic outlet syndrome¹

References

1.

Hooper TL, Denton J, McGalliard MK, Brismée JM, Sizer PS. Thoracic outlet syndrome: A controversial clinical condition. Part 2: Non-surgical and surgical management. The Journal of Manual & Manipulative Therapy. 2010;18(3):132-138. doi:10.1179/106698110X12640740712338