Chiropractors/Popping ribs.

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Expert: - 8/6/2007


Question
My bottom left rib has been popping for a few years now, and about eight months ago it became painful. I went to several doctors, and got x-rays and an MRI (which didn't show anything abnormal. Finally one of the doctors said the rib had separated from the cartilage and that's what was causing the popping. He gave me a steroid injection for the pain, but it came back after only a few days. The pain is not quite as intense as before, but it's still rather painful.

For the last few months I've been dealing with the pain using Ibuprofen and Lidocaine patches. Recently, however, the rib on the right started popping as well. Managing one was rather difficult, and I don't want to worry about two.

A doctor mentioned that surgically removing the ends from the ribs could stop the popping--which, at this point, I think I want to do, short of any other options.

Unfortunately, I leave to start college in less than a month...

Answer
Hi Brendon,

Lower ribs have poor blood supply and heal very slow. Costectomy is very radical, dangerous, expensive and unnecessary. Start taking 3000mg of glucosamine sulfate with MSM and therapeutic ultrasound to speed the healing process. Get a rib support to prevent separation, in a few months in should be pain free and healed. I broke all my ribs, all 14 and it worked for me. No way I would get the surgery when there are other superior methods of treatment.


Good Luck!
Dr. Timothy Durnin
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Dr. Timothy K. Durnin

Expertise

Anything Chiropractic related, Internal Medicine, Neurology, Hematology, Physical Therapy, Orthopedics Herniated or Slipped disc problems, Sciatica, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Spinal Injuries, Arthritis, Nutritional Advice, Diet and exercise, Supplement Knowledge, Orthotics, Laser Therapy, Pinched Nerves, Imaging Interpretation,(X-ray, MRI, Ultrasound, CT ect), any and all Neuromusculoskeletal Disorders. Expert Witness for 19 yrs, dealing with Medical Malpractice, Personal Injury, Workman's Compensation, Medicare and HIPPA issues. Active in clinical practice for 16+ yrs, I am a second generation Chiropractor, my father practiced for over 50 yrs in private practice and as a Diplomat in Radiology (DACBR) Currently on staff at Olympia Fields Osteopathic Hospital, active in private practice with several disciplines including Pediatrics, Orthopedic Surgery, Family Practice, IME's and Internal Medicine M.D.'s.

Experience

I own or am actively involved with 24 multidisciplinary clinics in the Chicago area employing M.D.'s, Orthopedic Surgeons, Pediatrics and Family Practice. My home practice is a continuation of my fathers which has existed for more than 55 yrs.

Organizations
AASP, ACA, ICS, AASP, AOPA, CPA, BBB, FCER, PADI

Education/Credentials
B.S./D.C. National College of Chiropractic 1991 Board Certified AMA impairment ratings. Presidential Cabinet Member NUHS. Phi Theta Kappa National honorary fraternity

Awards and Honors
Phi Theta Kappa/Who's Who in America Chiropractor of the year award 2001

Past/Present Clients
Many Chicago Bulls players

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