Rib Out of Place: Symptoms, Causes and How a Chiropractor Can Help
By Dr. Guillermo Nazario ·
People often describe a "rib out of place" as a sharp, stabbing pain in the upper back or chest that gets worse with a deep breath, a twist or a sneeze. Most of the time the rib is not truly dislocated. Instead, the joint where the rib meets the spine has become stuck or irritated, and the muscles around it tighten up.
Common Symptoms
- Sharp pain between or next to the shoulder blades
- Pain when breathing deeply, coughing or sneezing
- Pain when twisting or reaching
- A tender spot along the ribs
- Pain that wraps around toward the chest
Can You Dislocate a Rib?
A true rib dislocation is rare and usually follows real trauma, such as a car accident or a hard fall. Much more common is a rib joint that is restricted or irritated. That is the problem people usually mean by "rib out of place."
What Causes It
- Sleeping in an awkward position
- Lifting, carrying or twisting suddenly
- Long hours at a desk or phone posture
- Heavy coughing
- Sports like golf, tennis and swimming
When to Get Emergency Care First
Chest pain can have serious causes. Call 911 or go to the emergency room for chest pain with shortness of breath, pain spreading to the arm or jaw, sweating or dizziness, or after a major injury.
How a Chiropractor Can Help
At Mattia Spinal Care & Rehab Center, Dr. Nazario starts with an exam to rule out other causes. Care can include gentle adjustments to restore rib and spine motion, soft tissue work for tight muscles, and simple exercises and posture tips to keep it from coming back. Our office is at 8915 Conroy Windermere Road in Orlando. Call (407) 909-4788 to schedule.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I know if my rib is out of place?
- Sharp pain near the spine or shoulder blade that gets worse when you breathe deeply or twist is a common sign. An exam confirms the cause.
- Can a rib out of place fix itself?
- Mild cases can ease over a few days. Pain that lasts or keeps coming back is worth an exam.
- Is a rib adjustment painful?
- Most people feel pressure and then relief. Techniques are adjusted to your comfort.
- Should I see a doctor or a chiropractor?
- If you have chest pain with trouble breathing or other emergency signs, go to the ER first. For back or rib pain after ruling those out, a chiropractor can help.