Lumbar rib – what should you know about it?

Can a rib hurt because of the spine?

Yes, the presence of an additional lumbar rib can affect the biomechanics of the spine, which can certainly lead to back pain, especially in the lumbar area. The discomfort may radiate to the hips or legs and worsen during prolonged sitting or standing. The extra, or thirteenth, rib can also press on nerves or paraspinal muscles, leading to muscle tension.

Can a person have 13 pairs of ribs?

Typically, a human has twelve pairs of ribs. However, some individuals may have an additional, thirteenth rib known as a lumbar rib. This is an anatomical anomaly present in up to 8% of the population.

Where does the thirteenth rib come from?

The thirteenth rib develops due to improper differentiation of vertebrae during the prenatal period. It?s a congenital developmental anomaly linked to the incomplete separation of skeletal structures in the fetus. Genetic and environmental factors?such as nutritional deficiencies or exposure to harmful substances during pregnancy?may also contribute to its formation.

What is a lumbar rib?

A lumbar rib, also known as the thirteenth rib, is an additional rib located near the first lumbar vertebra. It's an unusual anomaly that may affect health and quality of life, especially when it causes pain or posture-related issues.

How many ribs does a person have?

Most people have 12 pairs of ribs, totaling 24 ribs. However, in some cases, extra ribs like lumbar ribs may be present, increasing the total count. People with lumbar ribs have 13 pairs?26 ribs in total.