Rib subluxation—often described as a sharp, stabbing pain near the chest, back, or side—can feel scary, frustrating, and even limit your ability to breathe deeply or move comfortably. Many people don’t realize that this pain can come from one or more ribs slipping slightly out of their normal position at the spine or sternum. When this happens, the surrounding muscles tighten, nerves become irritated, and even simple movements can feel overwhelming. But here’s the good news: you don’t have to li