LAB TEST
Slipping rib syndrome
Slipping rib syndrome refers to pain in your lower chest or upper abdomen which may be present when your lower ribs move a little more than normal. Your ribs are the bones in your chest that wrap around your upper body. They connect your breastbone to your spine.
Causes
This syndrome usually occurs in the 8th to 10th ribs (also known as false ribs) at the lower part of your rib cage. These ribs are not connected to the chest bone (sternum). Fibrous tissue (ligaments), connect these ribs to each other to help keep them stable. The relative weakness in the ligaments can allow the ribs…
Symptoms
The condition usually occurs on one side. Rarely, it may occur on both sides. Symptoms include: Severe pain in the lower chest or upper abdomen. The pain may come and go and get better with time. A popping, clicking, or slipping sensation. Pain when applying pressure to the affected area. Coughing, laughing, lifting,…
Exams and Tests
The symptoms of slipping rib syndrome are similar to other medical conditions. This makes the condition difficult to diagnose. Your health care provider will take your medical history and ask about your symptoms. You will be asked questions such as: How did the pain start? Was there an injury? What makes your pain…
Treatment
The pain usually goes away in few weeks. Treatment focuses on relieving the pain. If the pain is mild, you can use ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn) for pain relief. You can buy these pain medicines at the store. Talk with your provider before using these medicines if you have heart disease, high…
Outlook (Prognosis)
The pain often goes away completely over time, although the pain may become chronic. Injections or surgery may be required in some cases.
Possible Complications
Complications may include: Difficulty breathing. A pneumothorax from an injury during an injection. There are usually no long-term complications.
When to Contact a Medical Professional
You should contact your provider right away if you have: An injury to your chest Pain in your lower chest or upper abdomen Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath Pain during daily activities Call 911 or the local emergency number if: You have sudden crushing, squeezing, tightening, or pressure in your chest. Pain…
References
Cupit GL, Dixit S, Chang CJ. Thorax and abdominal injuries. In: Madden CC, Putukian M, McCarty EC, Young CC, eds. Netter's Sports Medicine. 3rd ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2023:chap 52. Kolinski JM. Chest pain. In: Kliegman RM, Toth H, Bordini BJ, Basel D, eds. Nelson Pediatric Symptom-Based Diagnosis . 2nd ed.…
This is a summary. Read the full article at www.ucsfbenioffchildrens.org (reviewed 15/10/2023).
This page is general information and is not medical advice. It does not replace a registered doctor, and it is not a prescription or a recommendation to use any medicine or test. Prices are listed prices and may change. Always follow the advice of your doctor or pharmacist.