Discover how osteopathic care at Summit Osteo & Performance Ringwood helps manage stiffness, tension, and pain through the mid back and ribs.
Bayley Forbes is an osteopath and strength & conditioning coach based in Ringwood, Victoria. He founded Summit Osteo & Performance to help people bridge the gap between treatment and performance — combining hands-on care with tailored movement and strength programs to support long-term recovery and better performance.
Pain through the middle of the back or around the ribs can make it hard to breathe deeply, twist, or sit comfortably.
While less discussed than neck or lower back pain, thoracic and rib restrictions are common in people who sit for long periods or perform repetitive upper-body movements.
At Summit Osteo & Performance in Ringwood, we assess how the spine, ribs, and surrounding muscles interact — identifying movement restrictions and helping restore comfortable mobility.
Postural Strain: Long hours of sitting or poor workstation setup.
Muscle Tension: Tightness through the chest, shoulders, or back from repetitive movements.
Joint Restriction: Stiffness between thoracic vertebrae or where ribs connect to the spine.
Referred Pain: Irritation from the neck or shoulder can sometimes refer to the mid back.
Respiratory Factors: Shallow or restricted breathing can increase rib tension.
Over time, these factors can create a feeling of “tightness” or catching during rotation or deep breaths.
Osteopathic treatment aims to restore movement, improve posture, and relieve discomfort around the spine and ribs.
Your osteopath may use:
Gentle joint mobilisation to improve rib and spinal motion
Soft-tissue release for tight muscles through the upper back and chest
Postural and mobility retraining for long-term comfort
Breathing mechanics and thoracic mobility drills
By improving flexibility and load distribution, treatment helps relieve pain and reduce recurrence.
Take movement breaks: Stand and stretch every 30–45 minutes if sitting for work.
Practice deep breathing: Expanding your ribcage helps maintain mobility.
Stretch the upper back and chest: Simple thoracic extension over a foam roller can improve posture and reduce stiffness.
Small daily habits often make the biggest difference in preventing mid back tightness.
If mid back or rib pain limits your breathing, movement, or exercise, an osteopath can identify the cause and design a specific treatment plan.
Book an Appointment
or learn more on the Mid Back and Rib Pain Treatment in Ringwood page.
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⚠️ Disclaimer
This article is for general information only and does not replace individual medical advice.
If you’re experiencing ongoing mid back or rib discomfort, please consult your healthcare professional or osteopath for assessment.
