Understanding Ribs Feeling Out of Place: Causes and Relief

Have you ever experienced a sensation that your rib feels out of place or misaligned, only to find the feeling disappears when you move around a bit? This common issue can be quite puzzling, but understanding its causes can offer relief and reassurance. In this article, we explore three primary reasons for this discomfort and how it can be managed.

Three Areas of Ribs Feeling Out of Place

Ribs can feel out of place in the following three areas:

1. Attachment to the Sternum or Spine

One common reason for a rib feeling out of place is a loosening at the point where the rib attaches to the sternum or spine. This loose attachment can lead to a sensation of displacement. However, this condition tends to settle down over time, providing relief as the body adjusts.

2. Bony Part of the Rib Meeting the Cartilage Part

Another area where a rib might feel out of place is where the bony part of the rib meets the cartilage part. This area can experience slippage, causing a similar sensation. Fortunately, these issues often resolve on their own without causing any harm.

3. True Joints with the Thoracic Spine

Ribs articulate with the thoracic spine in true joints. Movement of these joints can sometimes cause a popping or clicking sensation, followed by a feeling of relief. This is a normal physiological occurrence that does no harm to the body.

Muscle Spasms and Displaced Ribs

Other times, the feeling of a displaced rib might be due to a muscle spasm around the rib area. When the muscle ceases its contracted state, the feeling of displacement disappears. This spasm can be caused by an old imbalance in the shoulders or an injured tailbone, which can lead to temporary discomfort.

Seeking Relief from Chiropractic Care

For some, they might experience relief through gentle soft tissue work done by a chiropractor. A chiropractor can help realign the muscles and joints, providing comfort and reducing the sensation of a displaced rib.

Rib Subluxation: A Common Condition

A subluxation of the rib can occur, especially after lifting heavy loads. This term specifically refers to the rib moving out of its ideal position, but remaining in place. A simple back rub might help alleviate the discomfort caused by subluxation.

Muscle Cramps and Rib Positioning

It's also possible that a muscle in the rib area is experiencing a minor cramp. These cramps can occur due to the positioning of the underlying bones, leading to temporary stress on the muscle, which then results in a cramp. Moving around can rearrange the skeleton, removing the stress and thus the cramp, leading to relief.

To avoid discomfort related to rib positioning and muscle cramps, it's a good practice to get up and move around during periods of sitting or standing for extended periods. For instance, during a commercial break while watching television, getting up to fetch a snack can help redistribute weight and relieve muscle tension.

Conclusion

In summary, the sensation of a rib feeling out of place is often a natural occurrence that can be managed through movement, proper realignment, and sometimes professional care. Understanding the causes of this discomfort can help alleviate anxiety and provide the necessary relief.