Pectus excavatum is an abnormal development of the rib cage in which the sternum (breastbone) grows inward, resulting in a noticeable and sometimes severe indentation of the chest wall. Rib cage pain may be sharp, dull, or achy and felt at or below the chest or above the navel on either side. A sudden impact to your rib cage can cause a … Also known as “sunken chest” or “funnel chest,” pectus excavatum can be corrected with the minimally invasive surgical technique called the Nuss procedure or with traditional open surgery, known as the Ravitch procedure. Other causes of rib flares include sitting and/or remaining hunched over for long periods of time, weak core abdominal muscles, pregnancy, anterior pelvic tilt or weakness in the back and shoulder muscles ( 4 ). If your rib cage is slightly uneven and not causing any serious health concerns, your doctor may suggest exercises or physical therapy to correct … It may occur after an obvious injury or without explanation. It protects the vital organs, makes breathing possible, and supports the shoulder girdle, among many other important functions. Many people who are preparing to undergo a FTM top surgery will wonder if it’s possible to reduce the size of the rib cage. The rib cage has a number of functions that affect the human body. Medical treatments for slipping rib syndrome include: A corticosteroid injection to help reduce the swelling in the affected area. Botulinum toxin … In some cases, flared ribs aren’t symmetrical, leading to an uneven rib cage. Surgical fixation is becoming the standard of care for patients with multiple displaced rib fractures and for patients with a severe deformity in the chest wall or flail chest, a life-threatening condition that occurs when a section of the ribs separates from the chest wall. Costal cartilage between your ribs and breastbone gives your rib cage more flexibility and the ability to expand when you breathe.