I was massaging a back, moderately hard, when it appeared to pop, mid back., since c/o rib pain?
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Answers:
Without a proper exam, I'm shooting at an intercostal cartilidge injury/IC retraction. That is the cartilidge that connects the ribs to the sternum/muscles inbetween the ribs moves inward causing pain/injury.
Here is some information to consider:
Intercostal retractions are the inward movement of the muscles between the ribs as a result of reduced pressure in the chest cavity; usually a sign of difficulty with breathing.
Alternative Names:
Retractions of the chest muscles
Considerations to look at:
The chest wall is flexible, which allows for normal breathing. Cartilage that attaches the ribs to the sternum (breast bone) allows free movement of bony structures so that the rib cage can expand and contract. During breathing, the muscles between the ribs (intercostal muscles) contract and pull the rib cage upward while the diaphragm moves downward, thus increasing the volume of the chest cavity and causing air to be drawn into the lungs.
If you happened to apply the "wrong" amount of pressure in a certain area, being that everyones physical makeup and allowance for changes can vary, could result in an injury of this type. I'd have your friend/patient/client see a Medical Professional just to be safe. I hope that this helps in some way or another.
It is very possible that the vertebra was out of line and moved upon your massage. Prior rib fractures or breaks can and will hurt forever.
Go to a chiropractor. Get an evaluation. Explain the massage and get adjusted properly. It will ease the pain.
Your massage did not cause this.
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