A small extra rib present at birth and occurring as an appendage to the seventh cervical vertebra in the lower neck. A cervical rib does not usually cause problems. In some cases, the rib may press against adjacent nerves and blood vessels, producing pain that radiates to the arm and hand. If pain or symptoms like those associated with Raynaud phenomenon (a circulatory condition featuring discoloration and coldness in the hands and feet) are present, the cervical rib is often removed.
A supernumerary rib sometimes developing in connection with a cervical vertebra, usually the lowest.
Cervical rib is a congenital abnormality characterized by the overdevelopment of the lowest cervical vertebra (neck bone), resulting in the formation of an additional rib. The extra rib aligns parallel to and above the first normal rib. The cause of this condition remains unknown. The severity of the abnormality can range from a small bony swelling to a fully developed rib, and it may occur on one side or both sides of the body.
In most instances, cervical rib does not cause any symptoms. However, if the extra rib exerts pressure on the lower brachial plexus, a network of nerves that extends from the spinal cord into the arm, it can result in various sensations. These may include pain, numbness, and a pins-and-needles sensation affecting both the forearm and hand.
An X-ray examination can detect the existence of a cervical rib; however, it is important to rule out other potential factors that may contribute to discomfort and sensations of tingling in the hand or arm. Conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome or a herniated disc should also be considered and eliminated as possible causes.
Engaging in specific exercises targeted at enhancing the strength of the shoulder muscles and promoting better posture can potentially alleviate the symptoms. Nonetheless, in cases of severe or enduring symptoms, surgical intervention may be necessary to eliminate the rib responsible for the condition.
An abnormally large extension of the transverse process on the seventh cervical vertebra that protrudes. This bone structure, resembling a rib, puts pressure on nerves and blood vessels, leading to sensations of “pins and needles” in the arms and hands.