Most people are amazed to find out that the ribs are not directly attached to the vertebrae.  There is tissue between the rib and vertebrae which allows them to move and expand when we breathe. When a rib is not in the right place, it will inflame causing pain and discomfort.

So, what does it feel like when a rib is out or not connected appropriately?

When a rib is out of alignment, pain can occur in the front of you chest, side or upper to mid back.  In the case of a rib out in front of out chest, it may sometimes feel like you are having a heart attack.  Of course, if you feel chest pain, go to the hospital and make sure it is not heart related.

What happens a lot is many patients check into the emergency room only to find out that cardiac or pulmonary problems are ruled out.  If this occurs, it is probably a rib out of place.  I personally have had a rib out of place in the front from boxing and I can say from experience that it can be a bit scary until you know that you are not having a heart attack.

If a rib is out in the back, pin point pain will occur in the upper/lower back or side, especially when breathing.  It is easy to find for a chiropractor and can be fixed.  

So, what can a chiropractor do for rib pain?

A chiropractor can find the rib easily with a "hands on" assessment.   The ribs move and sit in a particular way.  If the rib is not connected properly it can be felt by hand.  After finding the problem and guiding the rib back in place, the rib will stay in place and the tissues and nerves around the area will heal which will stop the pain.  Then making sure that the area stays loose and moves fluidly helps it from sliding out again. 

Ribs are overlooked by many health practitioners but I have seen several patients with pain that just won't go away and they are unsure what is causing the problem. After finding a rib that is out of place and correcting it I have gotten amazing results!  The patient can normally get fast relief and reassurance that they do not have a serious health problem.  

Contact me at my San Francisco, CA or San Carlos, CA office to find out how I can help you with rib pain or any other health goal you may have.  Looking forward to meeting you!