Rib and mid-back strain massage therapy TorontoRib & Mid-Back Strain
This isn't quite so much a single condition as a collection of different muscle tightnesses and associated issues — it draws on the same territory as upper cross syndrome, plus two specific culprits: an irritated or “stuck” rib joint, and facet strains in the mid-back — both can cause pinching, sharp pain when breathing or rotating.
Not a diagnosis — for more information, contact me or another trusted healthcare provider.
General muscular upper back tension, soreness and discomfort, sometimes in the ribs and possibly associated with deep breathing. If you're experiencing several of these together, especially in the early stages, it's likely muscular in origin.
Often, one treatment brings significant immediate relief. From there, a home routine of condition-specific rib and facet mobilizations helps you get better promptly without needing more appointments — though I'm always happy to see you again.
Typical course: Often 1–3 sessions over 1–3 weeks. That's been my experience with most clients, but there are always a few outliers — some resolve faster, some take longer.
See your doctor first
Rib pain after a fall or impact should be checked for a fracture. Mid-back or rib pain with fever or a cough needs a doctor.
Call 911 if…
Pain in your upper back, between the shoulder blades, jaw or ribs that comes with chest pressure, shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, or pain spreading to your arm or jaw can be a heart attack — especially for women, whose symptoms are often less “classic.” Call 911.