How to treat costochondritis

Treatment for costochondritis usually includes nonsurgical therapies such as medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications. The goal is to relieve pain and reduce inflammation so you can resume normal activities. Medication is a common first step and includes nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), acetaminophen (such as paracetamol), and topical analgesics to control pain. These medications can help reduce inflammation and swelling, thereby relieving symptoms. If these medications are not enough to control the pain, your doctor may recommend a short course of medications such as clorazepam to relax the muscles, or injections of local anesthetics and steroids into the affected area for quick pain relief. Physical therapy helps improve chest flexibility and muscle endurance through specific exercises and breathing exercises, reducing the risk of recurrence.

In daily life, it is also extremely important to adjust activity patterns. Avoiding deep breathing, heavy lifting, and strenuous activities that may cause stress to the chest is necessary. At the same time, regular gentle exercise, such as walking or swimming, can enhance muscle elasticity and strength, thereby relieving symptoms. Alternating between hot and cold compresses can effectively relieve local pain and muscle tension. Proper warm-up before strenuous exercise can better prevent the occurrence of pain. Maintaining good posture and reducing stress during treatment are also important for long-term health.

In daily life, it is also extremely important to adjust activity patterns. Avoiding deep breathing, heavy lifting, and strenuous activities that may cause stress to the chest is necessary. At the same time, regular gentle exercise, such as walking or swimming, can enhance muscle elasticity and strength, thereby relieving symptoms. Alternating between hot and cold compresses can effectively relieve local pain and muscle tension. Proper warm-up before strenuous exercise can better prevent the occurrence of pain. Maintaining good posture and reducing stress during treatment are also important for long-term health.

If symptoms do not improve significantly after a period of conservative treatment, or if the pain is severe, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible for further evaluation and treatment. Under the guidance of a doctor, more complex interventional therapy may be necessary. Close cooperation between doctors and patients can help develop the most suitable treatment plan for individual conditions, thereby effectively controlling the disease.