Rib Subluxation

A 'rib out of place' — sharp, stabbing pain with breathing, twisting, or coughing — is one of the most dramatically painful conditions we treat, and one of the most satisfying to correct quickly with chiropractic care.

What Is Rib Subluxation?

Rib subluxation occurs when one or more ribs shift out of their normal articulation at either the costovertebral joint (where the rib meets the thoracic vertebra) or the costochondral junction (where the rib meets the sternum). The resulting pain is typically sharp, localized, and intensely worsened by deep breathing, twisting, coughing, or sneezing — leading many patients to fear they have a fractured rib or cardiac event. Rib subluxations can occur from a single awkward movement, prolonged coughing, sleeping in an unusual position, or chronic thoracic spinal dysfunction. Chiropractic correction of the subluxated rib and the associated thoracic vertebra provides rapid relief.

Common Symptoms

Sharp, localized pain at a specific rib, typically one side
Pain that worsens sharply with deep breathing, coughing, or sneezing
Pain with twisting the torso
Referred pain radiating around the chest wall toward the sternum
Shallow breathing to avoid triggering pain
Palpable rib tenderness at the costovertebral junction

Common Causes & Contributing Factors

Sudden awkward movement or twisting
Prolonged coughing or sneezing
Sleeping in an unusual position or on an unsupportive mattress
Thoracic spinal dysfunction predisposing ribs to subluxation
Sports collision or direct rib impact

The Pura Vida Protocol: Chiropractic Care for Rib Subluxation

Dr. Foss performs a specific rib palpation exam to identify the subluxated rib and its direction of displacement. SOT rib corrections use gentle, specific low-force techniques to restore normal rib position — often producing immediate relief. The associated thoracic vertebral segment is also adjusted to restore normal costovertebral joint mechanics. In most cases, rib subluxations respond within one to three treatments. Patients often notice that deep breathing is significantly less painful immediately following the correction.

At Pura Vida Chiropractic, Dr. Foss uses Sacro-Occipital Technique (SOT) — a gentle, category-based system that addresses the spine, pelvis, and craniosacral rhythm as one integrated unit. SOT restores proper biomechanics, reduces nerve interference, and creates the neurological environment your body needs to heal itself.

Advanced Therapies We Combine With Chiropractic

For many patients, combining spinal correction with regenerative therapies produces faster and more lasting results. Depending on your condition, Dr. Foss may incorporate one or more of the following:

Class IV Laser Therapy

Photobiomodulation with a 10–15W Class IV laser delivers therapeutic light energy deep into tissue, reducing inflammation, blocking pain signals, and speeding healing at the cellular level.

Why Choose Pura Vida Chiropractic in San Antonio?

Pura Vida Chiropractic is a family-friendly, bilingual (English/Spanish) clinic serving San Antonio, TX. Dr. Dan Foss is trained in Sacro-Occipital Technique (SOT), a comprehensive chiropractic system that addresses the whole body — not just the area of pain. We combine hands-on spinal correction with the latest regenerative technology to help patients resolve the root cause of their condition rather than masking symptoms.

We are insurance friendly with most insurance plans including Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas, UnitedHealthcare, Humana, Aetna, Ambetter, Oscar Health, Community First, and Molina Healthcare. New patient appointments are available promptly.

Ready to Get Relief from Rib Subluxation?

Schedule your new patient appointment with Dr. Foss at Pura Vida Chiropractic in San Antonio, TX. We'll identify the root cause and build a personalized care plan.

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