Many people associate poor posture with back or neck issues—but what about rib pain? According to Winnipeg chiropractor Dr. Dan, it’s a more common cause than people realize. “Definitely yes,” he says when asked whether poor posture can lead to rib pain.
How Posture Affects the Rib Cage
The thoracic spine has a natural curve and plays a big role in supporting your upper body. But when you slouch or crane your neck toward a screen, your ribs can end up taking the hit.
Dr. Dan explains, “Unfortunately, we’re seeing a lot more posture-related issues—rib pain, pain at the front of the ribs, and of course, that often leads to neck problems, back pain, headaches—all of those things.”
Poor posture can strain the joints where your ribs meet the spine (costovertebral joints) and irritate the small muscles between the ribs. Add in monitor setups that require constant twisting, and that discomfort can become a daily issue.
This type of rotation, especially when repeated for hours each day, can compound the strain on the rib joints and surrounding muscles.
Fixing the Problem Starts with Awareness
At Lindenwoods Chiropractic, we recommend the following that can make a big difference in your posture:
- Keep screens at eye level to avoid hunching
- Sit facing your monitor directly—avoid working at an angle
- Stand and stretch every 30 minutes
Helpful Exercises for Relief
Performing postural exercises like wall angels and prone thoracic extensions can help counteract that slumped position and reduce tension in the upper back and ribs. If you’re still feeling pain after making ergonomic changes, consider chiropractic care, which can provide relief, naturally.
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Tired of posture-related pain? Schedule an appointment today and get comfortable again!
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