By Kate Pallett, Physiotherapist at Claremont
What is the first rib?
The first rib protects the upper portion of our lungs and serves as an important attachment site for several muscles from the neck and shoulder. It also forms the base of the thoracic outlet where important veins, arteries and nerves travel in and out of the arm.
First rib dysfunction may contribute to neck and shoulder pain as well as numbness and tingling down the arm when the rib is elevated or lacks full mobility. This may occur following a whiplash injury, repetitive use of the arm overhead, heavy carrying or pulling with one arm, an upper chest breathing pattern, postural issues, or following shoulder surgery.
An experienced physiotherapist will be able to fully assess your condition and decide if your first rib may be implicated as a possible driver for your neck and shoulder pain. They can use various manual therapy techniques including massage, dry needling, rib mobilisation and gentle stretches to help alleviate your symptoms.
If you are experiencing neck or shoulder pain, don’t put up with it, Physiotherapy treatment can be quick and effective.
Call us on (08) 9384 1555 to make an appointment with a shoulder physio in Claremont or click here to book online.
