Question
Hi, my mum has constant back pain. The pain is roughly between her 9th and 10th rib on the right side. It is shooting pain in roughly 4 cm X 4 cm area.

She has been taking pain killer but it doesn't help. My mum is in her 40s

Please help me.
Can you let me know the cause of the back pain and how to treat it?
Thank you

Answer
Dear Misha,

I wish that I could tell you what is the cause of your mother's pain, but this is impossible!  A good diagnosis (determination of cause) requires an extensive history taking and examination.

Here is a short list of possible causes:

1) Intercostal neuralgia, or inflammation of the nerve between the ribs.
2) Rib head subluxation, or joint fixation
3) Rib bone diseases
4) Diseases of tissues under the ribs, such as stomach, liver, gall bladder, intestinal problems, etc
5) Spinal function problems, including thoracic subluxations, thoracic compression fractures, etc
6) Arthritic conditions, such as ankylosing spondylosis, etc.

As you can see, the questions can become extensive and complicated quite quickly.  It is important that your mother follow-through with her doctors there at home until she has a good diagnosis and a plan for treatment.  Her medical doctor should help to rule out serious conditions.  If it is determined that she does not have an organ problem or other disease, she should consider seeing a physical therapist or chiropractor.

I hope that this helps you Misha.  I hope that your mother feels better soon.

Keith Biggs, DC
http://www.eastmesachiropractor.com