Adjusting the Upper Costals

The ribs are an often-underestimated deterrent to health when functioning less than optimally. Not only are they heavily influential in proprioceptive stimulation and feedback to the nervous system they also provide a protective covering to the vital organs of the thorax. When the ribs are subluxated chest expansion, CO2/O2 exchange, and cardiorespiratory rates can be adversely impacted. This presentation will offer a method of analysis and correction in particular to costals 2-6.

• •Identify anatomical landmarks and palpation techniques for ribs 2-6 to assess for subluxation and dysfunction
• •Explain the neurophysiological mechanisms by which rib subluxation impacts proprioceptive feedback and nervous system function
• •Describe how costal dysfunction affects chest wall mechanics, respiratory efficiency, and cardiorespiratory parameters
• •Demonstrate safe and effective adjustment protocols specific to upper costal segments (ribs 2-6)
• •Assess the relationship between upper costal restrictions and common patient complaints including breathing dysfunction and thoracic pain
• •Apply clinical decision-making to determine when costal adjustments are indicated versus contraindicated