Slipping rib syndrome

Slipping rib syndrome is a condition that can happen when a rib does not connect correctly to cartilage. It can happen naturally or after an injury. A slipping rib can feel like a sharp, sudden, and stabbing pain. Patients may have been seen by other specialists for belly or muscle pain before seeing us. We diagnosis it by history and trying to make the pain happen in clinic. We can do this by hooking under the ribs with a few fingers and lifting up. Sometimes, our patients can tell the exact spot and cause the pain themselves. We can have a special kind of radiologist provider give medicine to block the nerves that feel the pain. This helps diagnose the problem and gives comfort to the patient.

If needed, a surgery can be done to repair the rib and cartilage. This would not change the strength of the chest wall. This procedure is completed as day surgery procedure and pain relief is immediate. The incision required for this operation is usually 1.5 to 2 inches over the affected rib.

If there is worry about the stability of the chest wall, a different surgery using a process called plating can help. This is more in depth and can have more risks for long term discomfort.