When the Bottom Ribs Aren't Attached to the Breastbone Medically reviewed by Jane Kim, MD Floating ribs are a normal part of human anatomy, but like other ribs, they can be injured and cause pain.

Rib cage pain is a common complaint that can have many causes, ranging from a fractured rib to lung cancer. The pain may be sudden and sharp or dull and aching. Many cases of rib cage pain are not ...