Question
I was diagnosed with a subluxated rib by my chiropractor the other day. I have been in extreme upper back pain that radiates to the upper part of my chest for 8 days now. The popping in the front right under my clavicle made me think this was just not a pulled muscle which made me go to him. I did have a chest x-ray first so that was cleared of any fractures and of course the subluxation was not mentioned. My Chiropractor adjusted me and said he felt the rib pop back into place. That was two days ago and my pain continues as well as the popping. I understand the popping is cartilage and I was diagnosed by my PCP as having costrochondritis. When should this start to heal? Should I go back for another adjustment? I am doing the cold compresses and rest and nothing is getting better. Thanks, Jerri

Answer
Costchondritis is in the front of the chest along the edge of the breastbone. A rib joint fixation where it meets the spine can cause your symptoms but should resolve within a a week or so after having it adjusted a few times.  You may also have a trigger point area of muscle spasm that can cause the pain also.  These conditions are all easily identified when examined and palpated by the Chiropractor. The radiating pain and tenderness can be reproduced on exam. The symptoms of costochondritis along the breastbone can take several weeks to resolve. Please discuss your concerns with your Chiropractor.