The primary concern of Chiropractic is the location and correction of vertebral misalignments (Subluxations). To maintain the balance of the spine, we must look at the impact that the extremities have on it. There will be times when the upper and lower extremities’ misaligned joints cause the vertebrae to lose the adjustment. Also, these misalignments can create flawed movement patterns. This can explain why some conditions become chronic while others resolve. Furthermore, a misaligned extremity can be the root cause of certain pain patterns and syndromes, all leading to decreases in function and performance.

The approach of Intelligent Chiropractic is to locate all concurrent weakness in the body. Whether these are in the spine, extremities, muscles, or connective tissue, they need to be addressed. Once located, our goal is to integrate a solid plan of both in-office and home care for each patient. This team approach yields the best possible chance of success.

Costo-Condral Subluxation in a Non-Concussive Event

Recently Published in CCEP Update, “Chiropractic Treatment of Ribs, April 2010

Authored By Salvatore J. Minicozzi D.C., C.C.E.P

When we think of rib issues, such as fractures or subluxations, concussive forces usually play a role in our thought process. During a thorough history with rib pain as a chief complaint, patients are usually questioned about a specific injury mechanism. In most cases, the patient will relay some reports of concussive trauma that triggered their pain. Traumas and injuries such as falls, fights, blow, and motor vehicle accidents are among the most common mechanisms.

There is, however, evidence to suggest that rib subluxations can occur without concussive forces. Although these forces are non-concussive, they are still considered traumatic. Examples of these traumas are coughing, sneezing, sleeping in an awkward position for an extended period of time, and over-correcting a sudden loss of balance.

I treated a patient recently with a costo-condral subluxation. The mechanism of this particular complaint was as simple as trying to walk through a doorway. The patient reported that he was carrying a small amount of weight (about 12 pounds) into his house. He reported that his rear leg slipped back as he was planting his lead foot. Because he was entering the house sidewise, he was also twisted at the time he lost his footing. There was torque to the thoracic region. He felt a tug on the right side of his rib cage at the costo-condral junction. He said that it didn’t really feel like a pulled muscle, but a gapping at the ribs followed by a snapping into place. He described it as “something stretched and popped.”

My examination revealed a positive pectoralis major-sternal test. I concluded that it was a costo-condral subluxation. The rib was actually riding over the cartilage as opposed to abutting to it. There was a definitive nodule present at the site of pain. The patient reported severe pain upon palpation.

The adjustment was very uncomfortable for the patient. I believe he even yelled, yet the pain was instantly reduced. I used Dr. Hearon’s method of distracting the cartilage as I thrust along the plane of the rib.

The patient-reported breathing and moving better. He also said that there was residual soreness, which would not be uncommon. I am optimistic about the recovery of the patient. We will continue with a follow-up evaluation.