By Laurie Melrose-Doering, Osteopath & Applied Kinesiologist
Rib pain is a common yet often misunderstood source of discomfort, frequently mistaken for neck, back, or shoulder issues, or even a heart attack. Many individuals experience sharp or stabbing sensations when turning their neck, taking deep breaths, or moving their upper body, without realising that the pain originates from their ribs. Since ribs play a critical role in supporting the body and facilitating movement, understanding how they contribute to overall musculoskeletal health is essential for managing rib pain effectively.
The rib cage, composed of twelve pairs of ribs, is responsible for protecting vital organs and supporting the upper body. Each rib connects to the spine at the back (thoracic vertebrae) and the sternum at the front, forming a cage that also supports the shoulder blades and arms. Because we breathe continuously, the ribs are constantly in motion, expanding and contracting with each breath. They also move with every bend, twist, or arm movement, making them an integral part of the body’s flexibility and mobility.
Ribs not only facilitate breathing but also assist with spinal and shoulder movement. As a result, any restriction in the rib joints can cause pain that may feel like it’s coming from the neck, back, or shoulders. This complexity often leads to misdiagnosis, with rib-related pain being mistaken for other musculoskeletal issues.
Rib pain can present in various ways, depending on which part of the rib cage is affected. Here are some common sensations associated with rib pain:
There are several reasons why someone may experience rib pain. Some of the most common causes include:
Osteopathy offers a holistic approach to managing rib pain by addressing the underlying mechanical issues affecting rib movement. Here’s how osteopathic treatment can help:
An osteopath will begin by assessing how your ribs, spine, and shoulders move as you breathe and perform various actions. By carefully observing your posture and movements, they can pinpoint areas where the ribs are restricted.
An Osteopath will correct a misalignment or dysfunction of a rib by pushing it upwards or downwards. Most of the time, ribs are ‘depressed’ which means that they have moved downwards. This causes sharp pain because the ligaments are overstretched and the intercostal nerve will be impinged.
An Osteopath will treat the diaphragm which stabilises the ribs. Several dysfunctions can lead to a weak diaphragm, for example a misalignment of the neck (where the nerve supply to the diaphragm arises); a misalignment of an attachment point of the diaphragm; neurovascular or neurolymphatic points; or overactivity of the psoas muscle.
Often, the muscles around the ribs, such as the diaphragm or intercostal muscles, become tight or inflamed, which restricts rib movement. Through soft tissue manipulation and stretching techniques, osteopaths help release this tension, improving mobility and reducing pain.
Since the ribs are directly connected to the thoracic spine, it’s crucial to ensure that the spine itself is moving well. Osteopaths will work on improving spinal flexibility through gentle mobilisation and manipulation techniques, helping to free up the rib joints and restore proper movement.
To prevent further rib pain, osteopaths often recommend exercises that promote proper breathing and strengthen the muscles around the rib cage. Strengthening the diaphragm and improving rib mobility through targeted exercises can help maintain long-term musculoskeletal health.
If you’re experiencing sharp pain in your neck, back, or chest that worsens with movement or breathing, it may be time to consult an osteopath. Rib pain can often be mistaken for other musculoskeletal issues, but with a thorough assessment, an osteopath can determine the underlying cause and develop a treatment plan to alleviate your discomfort.
Rib pain can be highly disruptive to everyday life, limiting movement and even affecting your ability to breathe comfortably. Osteopathy offers an effective and holistic approach to treating rib pain by addressing the root causes of the issue, improving mobility, and reducing tension in the muscles and joints. By restoring proper rib function, osteopathic treatment can help alleviate pain and enhance overall well-being.
If you’re dealing with unexplained neck, back, or chest pain, consider visiting an osteopath to explore whether rib restrictions may be the underlying cause. With targeted treatment, you can breathe easier and move more freely.
At Aston Clinic London, our osteopaths take a holistic and personalised approach to treating rib pain. They assess how your ribs, spine, and shoulders move during daily activities and breathing to identify the root causes of discomfort. By analysing posture and movement, the clinic can pinpoint restrictions causing pain.
We aim not only to relieve pain but also to restore proper rib function and enhance overall movement. This comprehensive approach supports long-term musculoskeletal health, helping patients breathe with ease and move more freely.
To book a session with one of our osteopaths, click here. Alternatively, you can contact us at 020 8942 3148to learn how our treatments can benefit you.
Aston Clinic London is a third-generation complementary health clinic located in New Malden, serving Kingston, Norbiton, Wimbledon, Raynes Park, Surbiton, Chessington, Worcester Park, Sutton, Richmond, and other areas of southwest London and Surrey.
By Laurie Melrose-Doering, Osteopath & Applied Kinesiologist
