Rib subluxation involves a slight dislocation or misalignment of bone. The ribs generally move in a smooth gliding movement but having a subluxation can cause the joint to become sore and trigger significant pain where the individual hardly breathes.
The adjacent muscles might go into spasm and the pain can be worsened by movement or even breathing. A rib subluxation can also trigger costochondritis. Engaging in back squats can trigger one or several ribs to subluxate.
Close look on the rib anatomy
The ribs are attached to the middle back or thoracic spine as well as to the sternum. Every rib is linked to a vertebra or joint in the back which are stabilized by ligaments and muscles. In addition, there is also a nerve amidst every rib. A rib subluxation can trigger irritation or pressure on any of these structures.
What are the causes?
Rib subluxation can occur while sneezing, coughing or sleeping in the incorrect position. Any movement that drives the arm behind the body in an abrupt jerking movement can result to subluxation.
Weightlifting can also cause a subluxation if the weight is too heavy or if breathing incorrectly while lifting. Wrestling, tackle football and even an incorrect turn while dancing can cause the ribs to subluxate.
Why the injury occurs during back squats?
Back squats are performed to build up the gluteal muscles in the buttocks, quadriceps muscles of the thighs, hamstring muscles in the back part of the thighs and muscles in the low back.
When performing a back squat, the individual should raise a weighty metal bar by grasping it behind the head across the upper shoulders. Even though a low back injury is the usual damage from back squat, other injuries such as a rib subluxation can also occur.
Management of rib subluxation
Chiropractic treatment is one tactic in managing a rib subluxation. The chiropractor utilizes a drop table along with a hand-held tool to restore the rib into position.
Avoiding a rib subluxation is done by keeping the back muscles durable and observing good posture. A forward head posture increases the risk for a subluxation. If an individual is suspected with a rib subluxation, a doctor must be consulted.
More Information / Disclaimer
The information posted on this page on rib subluxation is for learning purposes only. Learn to recognize the indications by taking a standard first aid course with Saskatoon First Aid.