🦴 The Ribcage: Marvel of Human Engineering

Not just a cage — a clever, dynamic framework

Let’s consider your ribcage. I liken the ribcage to a birdcage. How so you might wonder?

Just like a bird cage has a floor, sides and arches over the top to protect all sides of its inhabitants, so too does the ribcage. The floor is diaphragm, the sides are the ribs, intercostal muscles and sternum and the top comprises the first ribs and the collar bones.

Both the bird cage and the ribcage offer a strong, resilient protection system for the precious contents but what sets the ribcage apart is it's ability to protect whilst moving in multiple directions. Added to this it provides the platform for the arms to function upon. 

Why You Should Care About Your Thoracic Spine (Even If You Don’t Know Where It Is)

The thoracic spine — the bit between your neck and lower back — is home to 12 vertebrae, each connecting to a rib. These ribs don’t just sit there looking pretty. They create a dynamic, shape-shifting structure that expands and contracts with breath, movement and emotion.

Take a big breath in... notice how your chest lifts and widens? That’s your ribcage doing its thing — splaying open like a Spanish fan, keeping your lungs roomy and your spine supported.

Breathe Deeply — It’s the Ribcage's Favourite Massage

Breathing isn’t just about oxygen; it’s also movement therapy. Every deep inhale moves your diaphragm downwards, expands your ribs, and keeps the costovertebral (rib-vertebrae) joints mobile. Think of it as a gentle, regular oiling of your joints — simple, underrated, and wildly effective.

Stiff ribcage? You might notice shoulder tightness, reduced spinal mobility, or even hip or neck tension. Everything’s connected — your body’s a team, and the thoracic spine is a key player.

Movement Matters: Why You Need to Twist, Stretch and Sway

Here’s a secret: I work on the ribcage with nearly every client. Neck pain? We check the ribs. Shoulder issue? Let’s look at thoracic rotation. Stiff lower back? It could stem from a rigid upper spine.

Sustained sitting (we’re looking at you, desk jobs) locks the ribcage down, shrinking its range of motion and pulling everything else out of whack. But the good news? Movement restores it. Regular stretching, rotation and breathwork keep this area supple and springy.

Your Menu for Ribcage Mobility:

• Swimming 🏊‍♀️

• Pilates or Yoga 🧘

• Resistance breathing exercises 💨

• Tai chi or gentle flow classes

• Simple home mobility routines (yes, I’ll show you how!)

What About That First Rib?

Fun fact: your first rib is tucked right under your collarbone — and it’s a sneaky culprit in neck and arm issues. Tight neck muscles (especially the scalenes) can elevate it, compressing the nerve pathways that serve your arm — cue pins and needles or pain. We call this Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, and yes, it’s fixable with the right approach.

Let’s Future-Proof That Ribcage

The thoracic spine is your body’s rotator, stabiliser, and protector. Without it, nothing else moves well. My role? Yes, I’ll treat your pain — but I’ll also coach you to know your body, to understand it, and to look after it for the long run.

Your ribcage shouldn’t feel rigid and brittle as the years pass — it should still move like the clever, co-ordinated slinky it was designed to be.

Final Thoughts: Your Body is Brilliant

Your ribcage is more than a structure — it’s a story of movement, breath, protection and possibility. Whether you're dealing with pain or just want to move better, caring for your thoracic spine is a game-changer.

✨ Let’s keep it mobile, robust, and ready for life.

If you'd like my help please get in touch in the usual ways; 07903 389905lisa@theenablemovement.com or fill in this quick I want to work with Lisa form.