Physiotherapy for Upper Back and Rib Pain in Norwich
Pain around the ribs, between the shoulder blades, or through the mid and upper back can make breathing, twisting, sitting, and exercise uncomfortable. A physiotherapy assessment can help identify whether joints, muscles, movement, posture, or a recent injury may be contributing.
Which Cliniko appointment should I book?
If this is your first appointment for this concern, choose Initial MSK Physiotherapy – 45 mins (Muscle, Joint & Sports Injuries) or Initial MSK Physiotherapy – 60 mins (Muscle, Joint & Sports Injuries). If Ellie has already assessed you for this concern, choose Follow-up MSK Physiotherapy – 45 mins (Muscle, Joint & Sports Injuries), Follow-up MSK Physiotherapy – 60 mins (Muscle, Joint & Sports Injuries), or Follow-up MSK Physiotherapy – 90 mins (Muscle, Joint & Sports Injuries).
What is thoracic and rib pain?
Thoracic and rib pain refers to discomfort in the mid or upper back, around the rib cage, or between the shoulder blades. Symptoms may follow a strain or injury, or be influenced by joint movement, muscle tension, repeated activity, or long periods in one position. An assessment helps establish whether physiotherapy is appropriate and what should be addressed first.
Signs & symptoms
- Pain typically localised around the thoracic spine (mid-back) and ribs.
- Difficulty twisting or bending the torso.
- Tenderness when touching the affected area.
- Tightness or stiffness in the upper back and shoulder area.
- Discomfort or pain while taking deep breaths, especially if the ribs are involved.
Common causes
Possible contributors include a recent rib or upper-back injury, muscle strain, repeated loading, stiffness around the thoracic or rib joints, and movement or postural habits. Symptoms around the chest, ribs, or upper back can also have non-musculoskeletal causes, so Ellie will advise if medical assessment is more appropriate.
When to seek urgent medical help
Call 999 or go to A&E for chest or back pain with severe breathing difficulty, pain spreading to the arm, neck, jaw, stomach or back, new bladder or bowel changes, numbness around the genitals, or symptoms after a serious accident. For severe pain that starts suddenly, worsens quickly, or makes you feel generally unwell, contact NHS 111 or seek an urgent GP appointment. Read the NHS back-pain guidance.
Musculoskeletal physiotherapy for thoracic & rib pain
Ellie’s personalised, non-invasive approach includes:
- Strengthening exercises — to support the thoracic spine and rib cage and improve stability.
- Posture and movement training — improving body alignment to reduce strain.
- Improved mobility — gentle stretches and mobility exercises to restore flexibility and relieve tension.
- Education & self-management advice — strategies and home exercises for long-term prevention.
- Hands-on treatment — soft-tissue and myofascial release, trigger-point techniques, rib and spinal mobilisations, or selective spinal manipulation where appropriate. Acupuncture or dry needling may also be included after assessment.
- Follow-up — regular check-ins to monitor progress and adapt the plan.
FAQ
How long will it take to feel better? Recovery time varies with the cause, duration, and irritability of your symptoms. Ellie will explain what appears to be contributing after your assessment and review your progress as treatment continues.
Can physiotherapy help with chronic upper back pain? Physiotherapy may help when persistent upper-back pain has a musculoskeletal component. Assessment focuses on the factors that can be examined and treated safely, while symptoms needing medical investigation will be referred appropriately.
Can physiotherapy help after spinal surgery? Post-surgical physiotherapy may be appropriate once your surgeon or medical team is satisfied that rehabilitation can begin. Contact the clinic before booking if you are unsure which appointment is suitable.
What should I wear to my session? Comfortable clothing that allows easy movement, such as gym wear or loose-fitting attire.
Ready for an assessment? View appointments and book, or contact Ellie if you are unsure whether physiotherapy or medical advice is the right next step.