What causes costochondritis

Treatment of costochondritis includes medication to relieve pain and inflammation, and care to avoid excessive strain. Its cause may be related to trauma, infection, or chronic strain. Costochondritis is an inflammation of the costal cartilage and surrounding tissues, commonly in the front of the chest wall. Symptoms include local pain, tenderness, and swelling. The pain may be aggravated by coughing, deep breathing, or physical activity, but it is usually not accompanied by fever or general discomfort.

1. Trauma is one of the common causes of costochondritis. Direct impact or sprain of the chest wall may cause damage to the costal cartilage and surrounding tissues, leading to inflammation. In daily life, strenuous exercise or accidental collisions should be avoided to reduce the risk of chest wall injury. If trauma has occurred, local cold compresses can be used to relieve pain and swelling. If necessary, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen can be used to reduce inflammation.

2. Infection may also cause costochondritis, especially bacterial or viral infection. This is relatively rare, but once it occurs, the symptoms may be more severe, even accompanied by fever and general discomfort. Treatment requires antibiotics or antiviral drugs according to the type of infection, while paying attention to rest and nutritional support to enhance immunity.

3. Chronic strain is another important cause of costochondritis. Long-term repetitive movements or poor posture may lead to overuse of the costal cartilage and surrounding tissues, which in turn causes inflammation. It is common in athletes, manual laborers, or people who maintain a fixed posture for a long time. Preventive measures include adjusting work posture, avoiding repetitive movements, and appropriately stretching and strengthening chest wall muscles.

4. Treatment of costochondritis also includes physical therapy, such as hot compresses, ultrasound therapy or massage, to promote local blood circulation and inflammation. For patients with severe or persistent symptoms, local injection of steroid drugs can be used under the guidance of a doctor, but attention should be paid to its potential side effects.

5. Dietary conditioning also plays a role in the recovery of costochondritis. It is recommended to consume more foods rich in vitamin C and protein, such as citrus fruits, fish and beans, to promote tissue repair. Avoid spicy and greasy foods to avoid aggravating the inflammatory response.

The treatment of costochondritis requires comprehensive management of the cause and symptoms. Timely medical attention and following the doctor's advice are key. Through medication, physical therapy and lifestyle adjustments, most patients can relieve symptoms within a few weeks and return to normal life.