Spine, Back & Neck
Rib Dysfunction
Sharp, localised pain near the spine or breastbone that catches with breathing.
Also called: Rib joint dysfunction, Costochondral dysfunction, Rib out of place.
Ribs form joints at the spine at the back and the sternum at the front. Restriction or irritation at either end can produce a sharp, well-localised pain that changes with breathing or twisting.
It can follow a specific movement, such as a twist or a cough, or appear without an obvious trigger, and the location of the pain often points to which joint is involved.
Why this matters
People often describe it as alarming because breathing and coughing aggravate it, and because it can be felt through to the chest.
Because the sensation can resemble more serious chest symptoms, it is treated carefully and ruled in only after other causes have been considered.
The brain & nervous-system connection
Where the nervous system fits in
Breathing mechanics and the stress response are closely linked, which is one of the things the NeuroInfiniti evaluation measures.
The exam looks at rib and thoracic movement patterns alongside breathing mechanics to understand what may be contributing to ongoing irritation.
What we look at
We look for patterns, not a single test
- Detailed health history and consultation
- NeuroInfiniti Stress Response Evaluation
- Posture and movement
- Balance and coordination testing
- Eye movement or neurological screening when appropriate
- Grip or motor-function testing when appropriate
- Palpation and spinal function
- Other examination procedures based on the individual
Not every person receives every test. What we perform depends on your history, your age and what the examination shows as we go.
Scope of care
What this does — and doesn't — mean
What we do
- • We evaluate chiropractic and musculoskeletal function.
- • We look at nervous-system-related functional findings that fall within our scope.
- • We assess movement, balance and coordination findings.
- • We measure stress-response patterns with the NeuroInfiniti evaluation.
- • We make individualized chiropractic care recommendations and re-measure over time.
What we don't claim
- • We do not diagnose, treat or cure diseases.
- • Chiropractic care is not a treatment for dementia, Alzheimer's disease or other neurological diseases.
- • Chiropractic care is not a replacement for medical care, testing or medication.
- • No outcome is promised. Results vary from person to person.
This is a concern where medical evaluation, imaging or co-management may be the right first step. Dr. Mike Geran will say so plainly if that is what the history and examination suggest.
Common questions
- Will I be adjusted on the first visit?
- Generally no. The first visit is an evaluation visit. Dr. Geran reviews the findings and makes recommendations at the follow-up visit.
- Do I need imaging before I come in?
- Not usually. If your history or examination suggests imaging is needed, we will say so and help arrange the right next step.
When medical evaluation may be needed
Chest pain, breathlessness, or pain with exertion must be assessed medically first to rule out cardiac or lung causes. If there is any doubt, seek medical care.
- Chest pain with exertion
- Breathlessness or shortness of breath
- Pain radiating to the jaw, arm or back with other concerning symptoms
Related at Foothills Chiropractic
- Joint Pain & Staying Active — Shoulders, hips, knees, ankles — extremity function matters as much as the spine.
- Achilles Tendinopathy — Pain and stiffness in the Achilles tendon, usually load-related.
- Ankle Pain — Pain or restriction at the ankle, often after an old injury.
- Ankle Sprain — Ligament injury from rolling or twisting the ankle.
Think Foothills Chiropractic might be right for you?
Start Here walks you through what the process looks like, so you can decide whether taking the next step makes sense for you.