Ace Physiotherapy and Sports in Singapore
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+65 81535374 -
ACE PHYSIO SPORTS
East gate Building, 46 East Coast Road
#08-03 Singapore 428766 -
Opening Hours
Mon to Fri: 08:00am - 8:00pm -
Opening Hours
Sat: 08:00am - 4:00pm
Sunday (By prior appointment)
Costovertebral Joint Disorders
What is a costovertebral joint disorder?
The bones forming the spine are called vertebrae, and in the upper back, they connect to the ribs through the costovertebral joints. When one of these joints is injured or irritated, it is known as a costovertebral joint disorder. Physiotherapy is often highly effective in treating this condition, as it can help reduce pain, restore mobility, and improve posture, ultimately supporting a faster and more complete recovery.
How does a costovertebral joint disorder happen?
Costovertebral joint disorders most commonly occur when the trunk and rib cage are forcefully rotated. This movement can overstretch or strain the supporting structures of the joint, leading to a costovertebral joint sprain.
What are the symptoms of a costovertebral joint disorder?
Costovertebral joint disorders often cause a dull ache in the upper back, which worsens with deep breathing, coughing, or rotational movements of the trunk and rib cage. The discomfort is commonly felt between the shoulder blades and to one side of the spine. Other symptoms may include:
- Localised tenderness over the affected joint
- Muscle tightness or spasm in the surrounding area
- Reduced range of motion in the upper back
- Pain that radiates along the rib towards the chest or side
- Discomfort when lying on the affected side
What should I do if I have a costovertebral joint disorder?
If you have, or suspect you have, a costovertebral joint disorder, you should seek assessment and treatment from a qualified physiotherapist. Early intervention can help reduce pain, restore movement, and prevent the problem from becoming persistent.
Physiotherapy treatment for a costovertebral joint disorder
The assistance of a physiotherapist is essential in managing a costovertebral joint disorder. They will begin by accurately diagnosing your condition and developing a tailored treatment plan. Management may include activity modification, the use of anti-inflammatory medication, electrotherapy, costovertebral joint mobilisation, and specific stretching exercises. Additional physiotherapy options may include:
- Hydrotherapy
- Taping
- Soft Tissue Treatment
- Acupuncture
What shouldn’t I do if I have a costovertebral joint disorder?
If you have or suspect you have a costovertebral joint disorder, it is important not to ignore the condition, as this can cause the injury to worsen and delay your recovery. You should also avoid any activities or movements that aggravate your pain.
Could there be any long-term effects from a costovertebral joint disorder?
Costovertebral joint disorders generally do not lead to long-term effects, and recovery typically occurs within a few weeks. However, recovery may take longer if the pain is caused by factors other than a typical costovertebral joint sprain. These factors can include degenerative changes within the costovertebral joint (such as osteoarthritis) or inflammatory conditions affecting the joint (such as ankylosing spondylitis). A physiotherapist can assess and determine whether your pain is due to these underlying conditions.
To arrange an appointment, please call +65 81535374 or visit acephysiosports.com.
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