In order to fix rib flare, we start with breathing. It also pulls the lumbar spine into excessive extension, and creates an anterior tilt in the pelvis, which causes imbalance between the hip flexors and back extensors, and the abdominals, hamstrings, and glutes. When the ribs are flared, the thoracic spine stays extended which weakens the shoulder muscles, in turn compromising shoulder health. One isolated issue can have an effect on other parts of the body, which can lead to more problems in a chain reaction.Ī rib flare has the potential to create issues not just with breathing, but with the back as well. Proper rib alignment and good diaphragmatic breathing go hand in hand.Īt MOTUS, we treat the body as a whole.

Then, when the ribs are flared it makes it difficult to fully exhale. Without a complete exhale, the lungs get stuck with old air, which makes the rib flare more extreme. The breath is essential to movement and our overall health, but many people don’t know how to breath properly. Some people develop rib flare because of genetics, but in a lot of cases rib flare has to do with breathing. The protrusion might get worse when you lift your arms over your head, and it might be more obvious on the left side of the body. You’ll know that you have rib flare if you can see your bottom ribs sticking out from your torso. Fixing a rib flare is key to all of these. When we’re working with athletes at MOTUS, we put a lot of attention on proper alignment, good posture, and safe movements.

There’s no pain or injury associated with this condition, but the habit itself can inhibit an athlete’s performance and make them more susceptible to injury. Rib flare is a condition that’s caused by poor training and bad habit, where the bottom ribs protrude rather than being tucked into the body.