Slipping rib syndrome (SRS) is a rare condition where the rib ‘slips’ or moves excessively, leading to pain in the lower chest or upper abdomen.

In SRS, the cartilage that holds the lower ribs to the ribcage becomes loose or ‘slips’, causing the rib attached to the cartilage to rub against the rib above or below it. This results in pain felt in the upper abdomen or the chest, as the increased movement tend to irritate the nerves of the ribcage.

Due to lack of awareness and under-diagnosis of the condition, patients with SRS may often suffer in pain for long periods of time before receiving appropriate diagnosis and treatment.