When most people think of rib pain, they picture the front of the ribs in the chest area. Pain in this area is typically the result of bruising or fractures from an injury. However, rib pain can also develop around the sides and back of the ribs. This type of pain is more likely to be caused by an issue in the spine. In this article we are going to walk through the potential causes of rib pain as they relate to conditions and injuries of the spine. We will also lay out some treatment options for rib pain that originates in the spine.

Rib Pain Causes

Rib pain can be caused by many conditions and injuries. Acute trauma (such as a car accident injury, or a sports injury) can cause bruised, or even fractured ribs. These will typically heal on their own with enough time and rest.

Any of the following symptoms may be a sign that your rib pain is being caused by an issue in your spine:

• A tingling or numbing sensation in area surrounding the ribs.
• Any loss of feeling.
• Sharp pain that gets worse over time.

If you recognize any of these symptoms in yourself, make an appointment with a spine doctor right away to get to the bottom of the issue.

Treating Rib & Back Pain

Successfully treating rib pain that originates in the spine first requires an accurate diagnosis of the underlying issue. In order to do this, your physician will likely perform a physical examination and also order imaging tests, such as x-rays, MRIs, or CT scans. These diagnostic scans can help identify pinched nerves, herniated discs, or other spinal conditions that may be causing the rib pain.

Make an appointment right away if you have rib pain that you think is caused by a spinal condition. This type of pain usually involves damage to the nerves and, as a result, must be addressed quickly to avoid further complications.

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