Muscle Cramps in the Back or Ribs

Small muscles between the ribs and larger back muscles help with posture, twisting and breathing. They may spasm after lifting, coughing, sport, prolonged sitting or a sudden turn. Pain from a muscle is often local, tender to touch and influenced by movement or a deep breath. However, pain in this area can also come from the lungs, heart, spine or abdominal organs, so location alone cannot identify the cause.

Pause the movement that triggered the pain and support yourself in a comfortable position. Try slow breathing, gentle shoulder movement and a warm pack wrapped in cloth for a short period. Avoid forceful stretching, heavy lifting and repeated twisting while the area is sore. A pharmacist or clinician can help you choose a pain reliever that fits your health, pregnancy status and other medicines. Persistent symptoms should not be repeatedly self-treated without review.

Call emergency services for pressure or severe pain in the chest, sudden breathlessness, fainting, blue lips, coughing blood, new weakness or confusion. Seek prompt care for fever with breathing pain, a recent significant injury, worsening pain or inability to take a deep breath. If the pain is mild but does not improve, arrange an appointment so a clinician can examine the chest wall and consider other causes.

Tell your clinician what movement, cough or breath started the pain, whether pressing the area reproduces it, and whether you have fever or breathlessness. Ask which activities and pain relief are suitable.