Chiropractors/thoracic pain

Advertisement


Question

MRI
Hi,
I have had trouble with my back for 18 years.
I am 42 years old.
I have had an MRI but nothing out of the ordinary shows up.
The pain is the left side of the thoracic region.
I have been told there is some disc wedging.
I feel tight around the ribs.
The feeling is like the ribs are putting pressure on my spine.
Could it be that I in fact have problems with my ribs where they connect to the spine and would it show on an MRI?
Every day is a battle as my spine feels week and unstable and I cannot function properly.
It is putting my family under stress as well.
Any suggestions?

Kind Regards Anthony McNamara

Kind Regards Anthony McNamara  

Answer
Hello Anthony,


   Yes, the ribs often can cause your symptoms.  The ribs insert onto the vertebrea in two places, these joints can become irritated causing spinal pain and radiating pain tracking around the side or front of the chest where the ribs insert.  You may want to see a Doctor of Chiropractic as they will adjust the Costovertebral Junction (where the ribs meet the spine)realigning the joint back into place.  After the adjustment you may notice instant relief.  Soft tissue massage to the affected area will help reduce tension and pressure on the joints.

Have a great day,
Dr. Brendon O'Brien D.C.

Dr. Brendon J. O`Brien, D.C.

Expertise

Questions related to: Chiropractic, Physical Therapy, Soft Tissue Treatment, Nutrition, Acupuncture, and the integration of Chinese and Western medicine.

Experience

Dr. O'Brien is a highly skilled doctor of Chiropractic who has come to Minneapolis, Minnesota from Rochester, Minnesota. Dr. O'Brien has a extensive knowledge of sports related injuries and myofascial conditions. Dr. O'Brien has competed in Judo, Mountain Biking, Road Cycling, Free-Style Skiing, Cross-Country Skiing, Baseball, Basketball, and continues to compete in Mountain Biking, Road Cycling, and Cross-Country Skiing.

Education/Credentials
D.C., Certified Acupuncturist in Minnesota.

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.