Anterior Rib Subluxation

We have 12 pairs of ribs that protect our lungs, heart and abdominal organs from damage. All the ribs have an attachment posteriorly into the spine. The first 10 ribs also attach anteriorly into the breastbone or sternum.
A common injury to the ribs is subluxation in which a rib goes out of alignment. Anterior rib subluxation can be caused by anything that stretches the rib or puts pressure on the sternum. Most common causes include excessive pushing movements like bench press, throwing, sleeping wrong, or a combination of bending, twisting and lifting heavy objects.

Anterior rib subluxation produces sharp pain at the front of the chest where the rib meets the sternum, and it is often mistaken for a heart attack. Neurological symptoms such as numbness and tingling sensation may accompany the pain if the nerves become compressed. In addition, the muscles that are around the rib could spasm. Repeating the causative action and taking deep breaths, sneezing, or coughing can exacerbate the pain.

Palpation and other diagnostic procedures performed by a qualified chiropractor will identify the subluxation. The sooner the subluxated joint can be adjusted, the sooner healing can begin and hasten the recovery period.