“How do you know if rib pain is muscular?”

First, how long has the pain been around? Second, did the pain occur due to trauma? If the pain lingers for longer than 3-4 days, then you are most likely looking at more than a sprain/strain. In most cases, the thoracic spine region plays a role in rib pain. When you examine the thoracic region via X-ray from a front view, there should be no curves - unless you have scoliosis. But from the lateral X-ray view, there should be a 44-degree curve. Many times, there is change in the mid-back curve that puts increased pressure on the associated vertebrae-rib joint space. In order to determine if this is occurring, I suggest seeing a spine specialist that specializes in spine biomechanics. You can find one at idealspine.com. I've been analyzing spine related injuries/chronic pain for 18 years, played professional hockey, and have sustained too many injuries to mention. In my opinion, it's better to understand the causes of your symptoms so you can make an educated decision on how you would like to resolve it and manage it.

Hello and thank you for this question. Rib pain is very scary! Fortunately, more times than not, it is a type of pain that can subside quickly. The intercostal muscles which attach can become injured or strained and sometimes can tear. This would cause great pain. In addition, a subluxated rib, which is fairly easy to correct, can be the problem. That leaves of course the fracture which is a much more severe injury, which oftentimes causes more severe pain.

Talk with a chiropractor to see if it’s coming from the ribs or muscles in the area!

A rib out of alignment will usually result in a muscle spasm, both create pain and make each other worse. You need to relax the muscle and get the rib back in alignment. Chiropractic is the best way to achieve the desired results.