Thoracic and Rib Pain Dysfunction

What is it? 

The thorax and ribs are one of the most under researched and under acknowledged regions of the musculoskeletal system that can not only be a source of direct pain, but a significant contributor to other dysfunction within the body as it affects almost every task we do daily.

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It contributes to 60% of the rotation in the trunk, has two adjoining ribs connecting to each vertebral body, and has many important muscular connections to the neck, shoulders, lumbar spine, pelvis, pelvic floor and plays a role in every breath we take. The thorax provides a spring against compressive loads acting like a shock absorbing system within the spine and has a huge impact on how well the diaphragm functions.

What is the cause? 

• Poor postures such as when sitting at desks for long periods of time or breastfeeding

• Thoracic outlet syndrome

• Schermanns disease

• Osteopororsis or osteoarthritis (link to conditions)

• Ankylosing spondylitits (link to conditions)

• Hypermobility

• Disc inflammation

• Facet joint problems (link to conditions)

Signs & Symptoms

• Pain in the middle of the back (the thorax)

• Can be a dull ache or a catching type pain with certain movements such as breathing

• The pain can also be at the side or at the front of the rib cage

What can we do about it? 

• Muscle releases and soft tissue massage to the thorax and muscles of the ribs including diaphragm release

• Joint mobilisations

• Muscle releases and soft tissue massage to any other part of the body that is contributing to the problem

• Retraining the way you breathe

• Individualised exercise program including stretching exercises and strength training

• Taping