First Rib Syndrome: Hidden Cause of Neck, Shoulder & Arm Pain | Physio360 Chennai.
- PHYSIO 360
- Jul 18
- 3 min read
INTRODUCTION;
Have you been struggling with unexplained neck pain, shoulder discomfort, or tingling and numbness in the arm? The culprit might not be your muscles or nerves it could be First Rib Syndrome, a commonly overlooked condition that compresses vital structures in the thoracic outlet area. At Physio360 Chennai, we specialize in identifying and treating this condition for fast and long-lasting relief.
What is First Rib Syndrome?
First Rib Syndrome occurs when the first rib (located just under your collarbone) shifts slightly or becomes elevated, compressing the brachial plexus and subclavian vessels. This compression affects nerve and blood flow, causing symptoms that mimic cervical disc issues or shoulder pathology.
Common Symptoms
Pain or tightness in the neck, shoulder, or upper back
Tingling, numbness, or weakness in the arm and hand
Difficulty lifting or holding objects
Feeling of “heaviness” in the arm, especially after prolonged use
Symptoms worsen with poor posture or carrying bags on one side
What Causes First Rib Elevation?
Poor posture, especially forward head and rounded shoulders
Repetitive overhead activity (e.g., sports or desk jobs)
Trauma (e.g., whiplash, falls)
Tight scalenes or pectoralis minor
Stress and shallow breathing habits
How Physio360 Chennai Can Help
At Physio360, we use a combination of manual therapy, corrective exercises, and postural education to decompress the thoracic outlet and reposition the first rib effectively.
Our approach includes:
🔹 Thorough assessment: We check your neck, shoulder, and rib mobility to confirm the diagnosis.
🔹 Manual mobilisation: Gentle rib glides and joint techniques to reposition the elevated first rib.
🔹 Myofascial release: Targeting tight scalenes, levator scapulae, and upper trapezius.
🔹 Neural mobilisation: To improve nerve gliding and reduce arm symptoms.
🔹 Breathing retraining: Diaphragmatic breathing to reduce upper rib tension.
🔹 Postural correction: Strengthening deep neck flexors, scapular stabilisers, and core muscles.
🔹 Kinesiology taping: To support rib positioning and ease muscular tension.
🔹 Ergonomic advice: Adjusting daily habits to prevent recurrence.
Simple Exercise You Can Try Now
First Rib Self-Mobilization (Using a Belt or Towel):
Place a belt over the top of your shoulder and under your armpit.
Pull downward gently while taking a deep breath in.
Hold for 5–10 seconds, then relax.
Repeat 10 times, 2–3 times daily.
Why Choose Physio360 for First Rib Syndrome?
🔸 Experienced therapists with expertise in neuro-musculoskeletal physiotherapy
🔸 Customised care plans tailored to your posture, habits, and lifestyle
🔸 Use of advanced manual techniques, posture correction, and breath work
🔸 Conveniently located in Chennai with extended clinic hours
🔸 Trusted by athletes, office-goers, and homemakers alike
🗣️ What Our Patients Say
“I had constant numbness in my right hand and pain while working at my desk. At Physio360, Dr. Sakthi diagnosed it as First Rib Syndrome — something no one else caught. I’m pain-free now and back to full activity!” — Shruthi R., IT Professional
Take the First Step Toward a Pain-Free Life.
Don’t let First Rib Syndrome limit your daily life. Whether you're a sportsperson, a working professional, or simply struggling with persistent discomfort, Physio360 Chennai is here to help you recover faster and stronger.
REFERENCE AND RESEARCH ARTICLE ;
1.First rib dysfunction in patients with neck and shoulder pain: a Delphi investigationhttps://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8183555/.
2.Comparing the Efficacy of First Rib Maitland Mobilisation and Muscle Energy Technique on Pain, Disability and Head Position Sense in Patients with Chronic Mechanical Neck Painhttps://www.researchgate.net/publication/338175071_Comparing_the_Efficacy_of_First_Rib_Maitland_Mobilisation_and_Muscle_Energy_Technique_on_Pain_Disability_and_Head_Position_Sense_in_Patients_with_Chronic_Mechanical_Neck_Pain
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