Do you experience sharp pain around your shoulder blades or mid-back when taking a deep breath, twisting, or lifting objects? If so, it is possible you have thoracic joint and rib dysfunction.
At Physio For Life, we specialize in pain and mobility issues relating to the thorax and ribs and can help you do something about it. We have the knowledge, skills, and experience to accurately diagnose and relieve the painful symptoms associated with thoracic joint and rib dysfunction. If you are in need of the guidance of a skilled physiotherapist, contact Physio For Life in Vancouver to schedule an appointment.
What is thoracic joint and rib dysfunction?
The thorax is the area of your body that lies between your neck and your lower back. Rib dysfunction occurs when a rib or multiple ribs on the thorax become misaligned. As a result, your ribs and their attachment sites experience mechanical dysfunction, restriction, dislodgement, or inflammation.
The thoracic (middle-back) region is made up of 12 vertebrae and 24 ribs. The costovertebral and costotransverse joints, which are held together by ligaments, connect and articulate these vertebrae with the ribs. These joints have a blood and nerve supply, which causes significant inflammation and pain when irritated.
Because of the anatomy of a rib joint, dysfunction in this area can cause excruciating, incapacitating pain.
The ribs can be yanked out of alignment during sports, falls, seatbelts in a car accident, and at work. Compressive forces through the arms and upper body, as well as poor movement patterns and posture, all contribute to misalignment.
What are my treatment options?
All of our therapists at Physio For Life are trained to correctly diagnose, treat, and manage symptoms associated with rib dysfunction. The majority of cases will necessitate rib joint and soft tissue release around the site of injury.
Some cases will be immediately resolved, while others necessitate multiple treatments to completely alleviate symptoms.
The following treatments have been proven successful in scientific case studies and may be incorporated into your treatment plan:
- Deep friction massage
- Muscle energy techniques
- Stretches to the joint capsule to break up adhesions
Ready to find relief? Contact us today!
If you had the opportunity to lessen your joint pain and discomfort, why wouldn’t you take it?
Physiotherapy has been proven time and time again to be highly effective in treating the symptoms associated with thoracic joint and rib dysfunction. Contact Physio For Life today to begin your journey towards a more painless life.
Your Next Steps…
Request An Appointment
Receive A Custom Treatment Plan
Work Hard and Progress In Your Recovery
Recover & Enjoy Life Pain-Free!