Breaking news. You have ribs in your body.

But, do you know where the first rib is located?

Most people are surprised to find out how high in the body the first rib is located. Don't believe me? Check it out.

 
It’s like Where’s Waldo for your first rib. The first rib passes right near a lot of structures that do not like to be compressed.

It’s like Where’s Waldo for your first rib. The first rib passes right near a lot of structures that do not like to be compressed.

 

The bad news is that sometimes the first rib is elevated and causes problems like:

  • neck pain

  • shoulder pain

  • headaches

  • decreased shoulder range of motion

  • decreased neck range of motion

What. A. Jerk.

What. A. Jerk.

Thankfully there a way to combat this bastard of a rib. I have had good success with this both personally and professionally. 

Before you check out the video, let's review a few things:

1. Do not put the bar too high. You need to get some pressure on the upper trap to get to the first rib.

2. Make sure you put some weight on the bar before you start.

3. Once you have some pressure on the muscles, you can shift your body forward or back to hit different tissues. 

4. If you have limitations in neck or shoulder range of motion, try moving before and after the mobilization to see if it improved.

1st rib mobilization? What am I talking about? This technique is great for performing some soft tissue mobilization to the upper traps, levator scapula (amongst others) and helps to mobilize the 1st rib, which can become elevated. Don't forget to give the video a thumbs up and don't be afraid you subscribe to EBM's page.
Dr. Tom Biggart

My name is Dr. Tom Biggart and I specialized in getting people out of pain and back to living their life to the fullest.

I work with individuals to create a customized plan that analyzes their movements both with exercise and all of their daily activities. 

Clients of EBM Fitness Solutions are able to return to doing things they once thought lost due to pain.

www.EBMFITNESSSOLUTIONS.COM
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Standing thoracic mobility [video].

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How does posture get so messed up?