Rib Pain and Shoulder Blade Pain: What’s Causing It and How Chiropractic Can Help
Whether it’s a sharp pain when you breathe in, a dull ache under your shoulder blade, or discomfort wrapping around your ribs, upper back pain can be frustrating and surprisingly common.
At Wellbeing Chiropractic, we regularly see people with rib pain or shoulder blade discomfort that has slowly built up over time, or appeared suddenly after a movement, workout, or even a sneeze.
While this type of pain is often overlooked, it can affect your breathing, sleep, posture, and even your ability to turn, lift, or relax.
So what causes it and what can be done about it?
Common Causes of Rib or Shoulder Blade Pain
There are several structures around the upper spine and ribcage that can contribute to pain in this area:
Joint dysfunction between the ribs and spine (costovertebral joints)
Muscle tension or imbalance in the upper back, shoulders, or chest
Poor posture (especially prolonged slouching or desk work)
Straining during lifting or twisting
Breathing pattern issues related to stress or poor diaphragm function
Irritation of the thoracic spine or intercostal nerves
Sometimes the pain is sharp and catches with breathing, while other times it feels like a burning, pulling, or stabbing sensation that radiates toward the chest, back, or side.
In most cases, the pain is musculoskeletal but it’s always important to rule out more serious causes such as cardiac or organ-related issues, especially if symptoms are unusual or persistent.
Why Does It Feel Like It’s “Under the Shoulder Blade”?
Pain under or around the shoulder blade often isn’t coming from the shoulder itself. Instead, it can be related to:
Restrictions in the thoracic spine (middle back)
Rib joints that are not moving properly
Referred pain from postural tension
Muscle strain or imbalanced movement patterns
When joints or muscles in the upper back are out of sync, it can irritate surrounding nerves and cause pain that’s difficult to pinpoint. This is why many patients say it feels like a deep ache or sharp jab behind the shoulder that comes and goes.
How Chiropractic Can Help
At Wellbeing Chiropractic, our team is trained to assess and manage conditions involving the spine, ribs, and shoulder region.
We look closely at:
The mobility of your spine and rib joints
Postural alignment and breathing mechanics
Areas of muscle tension or restriction
How your body is moving and compensating
Treatment may include:
Gentle chiropractic adjustments to restore motion to stiff joints
Soft tissue release or specific stretching
Postural advice and movement education
Breathing support or exercises when relevant
The goal is to reduce irritation, improve alignment, and help your body move more freely—with less strain on the structures around the ribs and shoulder blades.
When to Seek Help
If you’re experiencing:
Pain when taking a deep breath
Discomfort under or around your shoulder blade
Upper back tightness that won’t ease with rest
Sudden sharp pain when twisting, coughing, or reaching
Then it’s worth having your spine and ribs assessed. The earlier we address joint or muscular tension, the quicker your body can begin to recover.
Chiropractor for Rib and Shoulder Blade Pain
Our chiropractors across Melbourne, Brisbane, Sydney, and regional clinics see this kind of pain regularly and often help patients find relief without relying on medication or long-term rest.
If rib pain or shoulder blade tightness is interfering with your sleep, your posture, or your daily movement, we’re here to help you get back on track.
You May Also Like:
