How Does Functional Patterns address Rib Flare?
Functional Patterns (FP) addresses rib flare by focusing on the root cause of the ribcage displacement: muscular imbalances, dysfunctional breathing mechanics, and poor posture. Rather than treating the protruding ribs in isolation, our method retrains the entire body to move in a way that integrates the ribcage into the core structure and strengthens the deep muscles needed to hold a neutral spine.
Practitioners at our Sydney facility have worked with numerous clients who have used these techniques to correct rib flare, improve their core aesthetics, and establish better trunk stability.
How is Functional Patterns Different from Traditional treatments?
Traditional treatments for rib flare often involve "sucking in" the stomach, stomach vacuums, or static stretching of the back. While these may offer temporary aesthetic changes or awareness, they rarely fix the underlying mechanical issue during movement.
What Sets us apart
1. We Prioritize Gait (Walking)
Rib flare often worsens because of how a person walks. If your gait cycle is dysfunctional—specifically if you over-extend your lower back while walking—your ribs will naturally flare out to compensate. We analyze your walking pattern and correct the extension mechanics that cause the flare
2. We Focus on Tension, Not Just "Holding It In"
Simply forcing your ribs down can often cause compression or slouching. We use tension-based exercises to create dynamic stability, teaching your abdominal wall to support the ribcage naturally without you having to constantly "think" about holding them down.
3. We Train the "Slings"
The body is connected by chains of muscles called "myofascial slings." Rib flare usually indicates a weak Anterior Oblique Sling (the connection between your external obliques and the opposite adductor). By training these slings, we can help pull the ribcage back into a neutral, integrated position.
When you come to our Alexandria facility for an Initial Consultation, we don't just look at a static photo; we look at how you move in real-time.
What to expect at our facility
Posture Analysis: We look at how you stand and analyse your compensations. We take photos to show you exactly how your rib flare is affecting your overall structure.
Gait Analysis: We film you walking or running to see how you move through space and identify if your walking pattern is driving your rib flare.
Corrective Exercises: We teach you the "FP Big 4" and other foundational movements to start correcting your structure immediately.
We start with …
Real Results
You may have seen the "Before and After" results on the many different Functional Patterns channels. We see similar transformations here in Sydney:
Visibly reduced rib flare and reduced inflammation.
Reduction in lower back pain (often associated with rib flare).
Feeling more stable and stronger in their core.
Improved ability to breathe and move efficiently.
Sydney's Only Licensed Functional Patterns Facility
Functional Patterns Sydney is the only licensed Functional Patterns facility in the Sydney area. Based in Alexandria, our studio serves clients from across greater Sydney who are seeking a root-cause approach to chronic pain and movement dysfunction - including shoulder labrum tears and recurring shoulder injuries.
Our practitioners are certified Human Biomechanics Specialists trained in gait analysis, postural assessment, and corrective movement. Every client works 1-on-1 with their practitioner from the first assessment through to their ongoing training program.
Ready to Address Your Rib Flare?
If you are in the Sydney area and are tired of your rib flare or the back pain that often comes with it, it is time to address the root cause with our team. Start your journey toward a stronger, more integrated body.