Together with the thoracic spine and the sternum, the ribs form the bony thorax, which is characterized by the fact that it provides stable protection for the organs within it on the one hand, but on the other hand also enables mobility through numerous joints, which is essential for the expansion of the lungs and thus for breathing. For this reason, pain between the ribs must be examined in detail in order to determine which of the components of the thorax actually causes the pain, or whether the pain is actually due to a disease of the organs located in the thorax.
Causes
The cause of pain between the ribs is often intercostal neuralgia. This is an irritation of the nerves running between the ribs. Inflammation of the pleura, which lines the ribcage from the inside and lies on top of the lungs, can also be responsible for the pain.
Bony causes, such as a contusion of the ribs or joint problems, are also possible. Muscular imbalance or tension can also play a role. In any case, if pain persists, an examination by an orthopedic surgeon should take place, as he or she can weigh up which of the various causes is most likely responsible for the individual complaints.
Intercostal neuralgia refers to pain originating from the nerves that run between the ribs. These intercostal nerves run in a belt shape from the thoracic spine along the ribs towards the middle of the chest and are responsible for the sensitivity of the adjacent skin areas and for the motor supply of the intercostal muscles and parts of the abdominal muscles. Nerve pain between the ribs may be due to shingles or may have been triggered by spinal disorders, pleurisy, nerve root irritation or hardening of the muscles.
A rib blockage causes stiffening of the joints between the ribs and the thoracic spine. This becomes noticeable by movement-dependent pain, which also increases when inhaled. Furthermore, the stiffening also slightly restricts mobility. The acute trigger can be of various kinds. The blockage can occur if the patient is lifted too hard, if a wrong, fast turning movement is performed, or if an incorrect posture is adopted.
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