Question
Occasionally my ribs crack in the middle, around my upper
back when I breathe deeply. It doesn't really hurt, but I'm
wondering if this is normal and, if not, what to do about
it.

Cheers.

Answer
Dear Anonymous,

This is not a big deal.  The cracking you hear can be the result of the soft tissue structures in the back such as the myofascial system, or the actual joint capsule where the ribs articulate with the vertebra.  Either way, if you are not having pain or dysfunction, then I would not worry about it much.  

Joints will occasionally crack to release pressure from within the joint space.  The pressure builds-up due to fixation of the joint movements due to abnormal movement patterns or chronic stress in the area.  Chiropractic adjustments will help to allow proper joint mechanics around the rib/vertebra interface when fixated, and this is an option for you.  I would opine that you will need only minimal care to address this issue, and should be taught stretching and strengthening
exercises to maintain proper function.

Respectfully,
Dr. J. Shawn Leatherman
www.suncoasthealthcare.net