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WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF SLIPPING RIB SYNDROME?

Common symptoms of Slipping Rib Syndrome include:

  • The feeling of abnormal movement the ribcage sometimes accompanied by a popping or clicking sensation which may or may not be audible.

  • Palpable movement of the affected ribs.

  • Severe intermittent sharp upper abdominal pain, which is sometimes reported to be close to the bellybutton area on the affected side.

  • Intermittent sharp pains in the back.

  • Dull flank pain which can radiate into the abdomen and back.

  • A dull ache or feeling of pressure like "something is stuck" under the costal margin.

  • Muscle twitches that feel like "fluttering" between the ribs on the affected side.

  • Severe pain between the spine and scapula (shoulder blade) that often starts as a burning sensation.

  • Severe pain in the region of the thoracic spine.

  • Snapping Scapula

  • Breathing difficulties

  • A tender spot on the costal margin or between the ribs.

  • Difficulty wearing a bra due to pain along the bra line.

  • An intermittent tingling in the arm or hand on the affected side.

  • Costochondritis and chest tightness.

  • Pain in the ribcage when lying on the affected side.

  • Intercostal Neuralgia.

  • Nerve pain that can be described as being "Like an electrical throbbing or pulsing sensation"

  • Nausea.

  • Vomiting.

  • Decreased appetite.

  • Early satiety (feeling full after a small amount of food).

  • Increased gas after eating, trapped wind, indigestion and heartburn.


In extreme cases Slipping Rib Syndrome can severely impact and reduce mobility including the ability to stand or walk for more than a short period of time and difficulty sitting up or getting in and out of bed.

Symptoms are often exacerbated by certain postures and movements such as lying or turning in bed, rising from a chair, driving, stretching, reaching, lifting, bending, twisting the trunk, coughing, sneezing, walking, or bearing loads.


Some studies have identified a link between Slipping Rib Syndrome and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome Hypermobility subtype (hEDS) which is a genetic condition that affects connective tissue. You can find out more about Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome by clicking here. 


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