Costochondritis

Costochondritis is the inflammation of the cartilage of the rib cage, often caused by repeated minor trauma to the chest wall, overuse of the arms, or viral respiratory infections. Chest pain caused by costochondritis can range from mild to severe.

To prevent Costochondritis, avoid repetitive misuse of muscles, and modify improper posture or ergonomics of the home or workplace.
  • Symptoms
  • Chest discomfort

    • Occurs or worsens with laughing, coughing or sneezing, Occurs or worsens with deep inspiration, Occurs or worsens with exertion

    • Relieved with rest, Relieved by standing and quiet breathing, Relieved with a change in position

    • Occurs or worsens when touching

    • Center of the chest

    common

  • Risk factors
  • Exercising

    Recent chest injury or trauma

    Recent upper respiratory tract infection

  • Treatment
  • Costochondritis usually goes away on its own, although it might last for several weeks or longer. Treatment focuses on pain relief. It is often treated with NSAIDs to reduce the inflammation and ease the pain, but it is also advised to take rest from stressful physical activity during this period. If conservative measures don't work, your doctor might suggest injecting numbing medication and a corticosteroid directly into the painful joint
  • Recommended specialist
  • If you have Costochondritis, then a visit to a rheumatologist is highly recommended.

    Contact a

    Rheumatologist

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