Conservative Management of Cervical Rib- A Case Report

Background: An additional rib that develops from the seventh cervical vertebra is known as a cervical rib, a congenital anomaly placed above the typical first rib, affecting 0.2- 0.5 percent of the total population. It may be seen on either the left or right sides. The majority of patients have little or no complaints and are identified by chance during an X-ray or CT scan. Due to the extreme compression on the arteries, veins and nerves caused by the position of the rib, which varies in shape and size, they might develop thoracic outlet syndrome. A cervical rib is a prolonged ossification of the lateral costal segment of the Cervical 7th vertebra.

Clinical Presentation: A 18 years old female patient was diagnosed with cervical rib on X-ray due to persistent pain at right hand. Patient concern with reduced mobility of the right upper limb and unable to lift the hand. The patient went physiotherapy treatment which comprise of exercise and electro therapy for 10 weeks which resulted in improvements in pain and range of motion and functional activities

Conclusion: The case report suggest that a prompt structured physical rehab let to improving the functional goals progressively and significantly which is a measured aspect leading to a successful recovery.