Rib pain can feel sharp, tight, or “caught,” especially when taking a deep breath, lifting, twisting, or sitting for long periods. Many people describe it as a band of tension around the chest or mid-back, or a “pinch” that makes it uncomfortable to move freely.
Rib discomfort is extremely common in postpartum recovery, during breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, during stressful periods, or after sudden movement or physical activity. The joints that connect your ribs to your spine can become irritated or restricted, which affects your breathing, posture, and comfort.
At Triada Health Ottawa, our chiropractors provide effective care to help improve rib movement, reduce muscle tension, and support easier breathing.
Why Rib Pain Happens
Rib pain often comes from irritation or restriction at the costovertebral or costotransverse joints (where the ribs meet the spine), or from tight intercostal muscles between the ribs.
Common causes include:
- Postpartum posture and feeding positions
- Stress-related breathing patterns
- Lifting children, car seats, or heavy items
- Sudden twisting or reaching
- Prolonged desk work or studying
- Sneezing, coughing, or respiratory illness
- Exercise or sports strain
- Poor sleep posture
According to the Cleveland Clinic, rib pain can also be linked to tension in the upper spine, shallow breathing patterns, or muscle irritation that changes how comfortably the ribcage moves.
How Chiropractic Helps Rib & Breathing-Related Pain
Chiropractic care can help restore movement to the ribs and upper spine. When movement improves, breathing often feels easier, and discomfort usually decreases.
Your chiropractor may use:
- Joint mobilizations
- Soft-tissue release for tight intercostal muscles
- Breathing mechanics support
- Posture and movement strategies
- Stretching and mobility exercises
Treatment is always customized to your comfort level and your daily activities — whether you’re caring for a newborn, working at a desk, or training athletically.
Rib Pain in Postpartum Individuals
Rib and mid-back discomfort are widespread after pregnancy due to:
- Feeding posture
- Holding or wearing your baby on one side
- Weakened core support
- Hormonal ligament changes
- Carrying car seats and baby gear
Many postpartum individuals describe rib pain as “hard to take a deep breath” or “sharp when twisting.” Chiropractic care can help reduce this tension and restore comfortable mobility.
Rib Pain From Stress or Anxiety
Many people unknowingly hold tension in their chest and ribcage. Shallow breathing patterns can cause tight intercostal muscles and create rib discomfort.
According to the Mayo Clinic, stress can contribute to chest wall tension that feels muscular rather than cardiac. Chiropractic can help reduce this tension and support healthier, more comfortable movement patterns.
Related Conditions We Support
Neck Tension
Neck tightness often contributes to rib and breathing discomfort.
Upper-Back Stiffness
A limited mid-back can change how your ribs move and how deeply you can breathe.
TMJ & Jaw Tension
Jaw clenching can alter breathing patterns and create upper-rib tension.
Headaches or Stress-Related Pain
Rib mechanics are often linked to posture and breathing patterns.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While rib pain is often musculoskeletal, you should contact your medical provider or seek urgent care if you notice:
- Shortness of breath not linked to movement
- Fever or cough with respiratory symptoms
- Sudden chest pain
- Dizziness or fainting
- Pain that does not change with position or movement
We always ensure chiropractic care is appropriate and safe, and we coordinate with medical providers when needed.
Meet the Chiropractors Supporting Rib & Breathing-Related Pain
Dr. Andrew Bell — Rib Mechanics & Thoracic Mobility Focus
Dr. Bell works extensively with rib mobility, upper-back mechanics, and breathing-related discomfort. His calm, detailed approach helps patients restore comfortable movement, especially after strain, posture changes, or stressful periods.
Dr. Courteney Werner — Posture, Breathing & Stress-Related Patterns
Dr. Courteney supports patients experiencing rib tension from posture changes, postpartum transitions, or shallow breathing patterns. Her background in Activator, Graston®, and CATS techniques helps her treat rib-related restriction effectively.
Dr. Jessie Hsieh — Postural & Mid-Back Strain
Dr. Jessie provides supportive care for rib, upper-back, and breathing-related discomfort, using pressure and movement strategies to improve comfort and mobility.
Book Chiropractic Care for Rib Pain in Nepean, Ottawa
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