Sophie should keep her hands wide apart, which favors breathing in the upper chest. The horizontal bar above is affixed with rubber straps, which allow some elasticity in the exercise. (See also Fig. 300 in the book.) The right hip is twisted slightly backward by a cushion under the right knee.
Rotational angular breathing (RAB) aids derotation
The Schroth rotational-anglular breathing technique is applied to these sections. This special breathing technique helps from the inside to push the ribs outward like an expanding air cushion. This achieves firmness and solidity for the sections above them.
The working trapezius muscle, visible on Sophie's left in the picture above, is pulling the main curve to the left. It begins at the spinous processes of the thoracic vertebrae, and would pull contortingly if the patient did not simultaneously intiate RAB (described in Part B of the book). This rotational breathing returns the vertebrae to their normal, untwisted position and widens and fills the concave side towards the back.
Stabilization follows corrective exercise
Here the patient could, for instance, pull the cane backwards, or attempt to "pull it apart" or to press the ends together -- always with arms placed wide apart. Stabilization (isometric contraction) follows corrective positioning.
During such forceful exercises the patient must exhale to avoid compression on the larynx.