Therapy
The most important therapeutic goal in the case of a blockage of the rib joint is the patient’s freedom from pain. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are used in particular. Acetylsalicylic acid or ibuprofen are active ingredients that can be contained in NSAIDs.
These substances prevent inflammatory reactions in the body by inhibiting inflammatory enzymes. If the rib blockage is accompanied by severe muscular tension, muscle relaxants are often used.Drugs of this kind loosen the hardened muscles and thus also contribute to pain relief. For example, suxamethonium chloride is used, a muscle relaxant that acts in the peripheral nervous system.
In addition to treatment with medication, heat therapy can be helpful. For this, one can either use warm compresses, electric blankets, heating pads or heat lamps or take warm baths. Especially with electric blankets or heating pads, it is recommended not to leave the skin unprotected or too long, as in the worst case it can lead to burns.
A warm bath relaxes tense muscles and improves the general well-being. In order to release a blockage of a rib joint, manual therapy (performed by hand) is used. The aim of this form of therapy is to release the blockage by using specific hand movements.
The patient is first prepared, the blocked area is palpated and examined, then a quick impulse is given to the blockage. Sometimes a loud cracking sound can be heard, which is a sign that the joint is back in its proper position, i.e. that freedom of movement has been restored. Once the blockage is released, patients are immediately free of complaints and feel no more pain, the full range of movement of the rib joint is restored and symptoms such as breathing difficulties are also a thing of the past.
Physiotherapy with massages and physiotherapy exercises is helpful to release the blockage. The main aim is to relieve the blocked joint. The so-called traction therapy is often used for this purpose.
The aim of this method is to relieve the affected joint, which is to be achieved by traction. Breathing difficulties in the context of a rib blockage can be well treated by specific breathing exercises. Muscle-strengthening exercises are also important, as strong, well-trained muscles provide essential protection against joint injuries by lying around the joint like a protective mantle.
Fast movements that would normally cause damage to the joint can be “absorbed” to a certain extent by the muscles. Various exercises that strengthen the muscles can then be performed at home after expert instruction. In most cases, no equipment is needed, but the gymnastic exercises can be performed with your own body weight.
Especially when a rib blockage occurs for the first time, a doctor should be consulted to confirm the diagnosis. Serious internal diseases such as a heart attack or aortic dissection can cause similar symptoms and, if not treated, can be fatal. Those affected can have their orthopedist or physiotherapist show them exercises to help them get a grip on the blockage in the acute situation.
However, lay people run the risk of pinching a nerve or damaging the joint cartilage if the dislocation is not correct, so the exercises should be well tested beforehand. In any case, heat in the form of a hot water bottle or hot bath can help to alleviate the symptoms. Painkillers such as ibuprofen or diclofenac can also provide relief in the first few days.
However, as these can have side effects if taken over a longer period of time, it should be discussed with your doctor if it takes longer than a few days. Often, with a little warmth and patience, a rib blockage will resolve itself within a few days. If the symptoms occur for the first time or persist for a longer period of time, a visit to the doctor is indicated.
There are some exercises for at home with which you can loosen a rib blockage and thus relieve the symptoms. In order not to aggravate the symptoms by pinching a nerve or damaging the joint cartilage, it is advisable to first have a physiotherapist or orthopaedic surgeon show you the exercises in peace and quiet so that you can perform them professionally. The doctor or physiotherapist uses certain grips to unblock the joint, so these exercises are difficult to perform alone.
There are no general instructions for deblocking, which is why the advice of a professional is usually indispensable. However, certain sports such as yoga, Pilates or a back exercise class contain exercises that specifically strengthen the back muscles and can thus prevent the recurrence of a rib block. In addition, this type of exercise is essential during and after a rib blockage in order to prevent the muscles from cramping and the formation of blockages.Special breathing exercises are also very effective in the case of a rib blockage, as those affected often have great pain when breathing and thus only breathe superficially.
