Expert: Scott F. Gillman, DC, DACBSP - 3/5/2010

Question
From time to time over the last 8 years I have popped a rib, usually on the right side of my back.  Typically, the activity I was involved in at the time was golf or hitting golf balls. Over that time frame I have visited several Chiropractors and unfortunately, only one was able to adjust me and put the rib(s) back in place.  I am very muscular and quite strong, which I attribute to the difficulty Chiropractors have when providing me with an adjustment.
For the last two years I have one rib on the right side just below the shoulder blade that has given me a lot of difficulty.   And two weeks ago the rib just above it popped.  Needless to say, there is a great deal of pain and I am unable to participate in most activities especially golf.
In the past two weeks I have seen two doctors multiple times and neither have been able to adjust me. Although I am encouraged to see one of them again, I see no point.  I have been treating the area with heat and ice, 3 times a day, along with some gentle stretching and exercise.  This seems to provide me with some relief; however, if I pick up a golf club and make a swing, it is apparent that with a little effort in making a swing I would be back at square one
I am not sure what the next step should be as there is no way I want to continue in this dysfunctional state, and paying 30-40 dollars a visit which provides no relief seems like a waste of time and money.  
I would appreciate your insight.

Answer
Ed,

First: find a chiropractor on www.grastontechnique.com   Get all the soft tissue in that rib zone worked out using graston technique.  It will dig out adhesions and scar tissue that cannot be unraveled with massage.   Heat/ice is only palliative and does not change the tissue at all.  Heavy bench pressing will likley throw out the ribs... in case that's what you're doing.

'Hope this helps.

Dr. G