Rib Pain

If you are experiencing pain in your chest or torso, such as pain radiating from the front of the chest, pain upon taking a deep breath, pain in between or under the shoulder blades, the issue is most likely the result of a problem with your ribs. Rib pain is usually described as a sharp stabbing pain.

You may have woken up with these pains after sleeping or you may have been suffering with this type of pain for some time.

Our rib cage is the body structure which protects and supports the major organs in our torso. It is a complex mixtures of bones, joints, nerves, muscles and connective tissues.

Ribs attach to your middle back (thoracic spine) and at the front at the breast-bone, also called the sternum. The thoracic spine is made up of 12 thoracic vertebrae with 12 ribs on each side. Each rib has two joints at the back the spine and the top seven ribs have a joint at the front attaching to the breast-bone. The last two ribs do not attach to anything at the front and are therefore called floating ribs. Each rib connects to the body of the vertebra and to a bone on the side of the vertebrae, and sometimes to the disks. The joints are stabilised by ligaments and muscles. There are muscles found between the ribs and there are many muscles overlaying the ribs. There is also a nerve between each rib, which extends from the spine to the sternum along the course of the rib. All of these tissues can be damaged by a rib injury.

The chiropractic examination is first aimed at ruling out serious medical problems. It is then followed by a detailed examination of the joints and muscles. Dr Hopson will assess the movement of the individual ribs.

The aim of the treatment is to restore the movement, reduce pain and reduce any muscle spasm. Chiropractic is such a versatile treatment that is does not matter how old you are, if you are affected by osteoporosis or other medical problems. There is always a suitable treatment method the chiropractor can use that is safe and effective for you.

Chiropractic treatment is always worth considering if you have any chest, shoulder or arm pain. Never delay having a check-up. The longer you leave the problem the more difficult it will be to treat.