Rib Pain

There are 24 ribs, which play an important role in our respiratory system, as well as to help protect our internal organs.  The first seven ribs articulate with the thoracic spine in the back, and directly with the sternum/breast bone in the front. The next three ribs articulate with the thoracic spine, but indirectly connect to the sternum via costocartiledge (thick connective tissue) of the ribs above them.  The last two ribs, the lowest ribs, are considered floating ribs as they only articulate with the thoracic spine in the back. All of these articulations have the ability to become restricted (tight), and/or irritated and can cause pain.  Rib pain can radiate out along the length of the rib, or cause local pain at the site of irritation. Restrictions within the ribs, often cause tightness, inflammation and irritation within the surrounding soft tissue, and pain with breathing. A comprehensive examination will be performed to determine where the pain is originating from, and a plan of care will be formulated based on the findings. Ribs can easily be corrected with manual therapy techniques to the joints and surrounding soft tissues.  Our therapist has a two year fellowship in advanced orthopaedic manual therapy techniques, and has worked with many patients dealing with rib and thoracic symptoms.

Associated Symptoms:

  • Spine pain
  • Pain in ribs
  • Pain that radiates to front of ribs
  • Pain with breathing
  • Spine stiffness
  • Decreased spinal range of motion
  • Pain in shoulder

 

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