Intercostal costochondritis

Costochondritis is a painful condition characterized by inflammation of the costal cartilage or around the ribs, which may be caused by trauma, infection, autoimmune disease, or long-term strain. Treatment usually involves medication to control pain, physical therapy, and lifestyle adjustments.

1. Possible causes

The causes of intercostal costochondritis are varied, the most common causes are as follows:

1. Caused by trauma: more common, due to chest impact or long-term coughing, the costal cartilage is compressed and damaged, causing an inflammatory response.

2 Infection factors: Viral or bacterial infections may spread to the chest and induce inflammation of the tissues around the costal cartilage.

3. Autoimmune problems: Immune system disorders such as ankylosing spondylitis and rheumatoid arthritis may lead to chronic inflammation in the costal cartilage area.

4. Bad posture or continuous strain: Maintaining a hunched, bent or fixed posture for a long time will increase the pressure on the sternum area and cause local inflammation.

2. Symptoms

1. Pain in the sternum or intercostal area: The pain may be dull or sharp, and is usually aggravated by deep breathing, coughing, or changes in posture.

2 Tender points exist: Pain may be triggered by light pressure on the sternum or ribs.

3. No obvious redness or swelling: Inflammation is usually limited to deep tissues, and it is not easy to detect obvious swelling or fever on the surface.

3. Treatment options

1. Drug treatment:

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): such as ibuprofen and naproxen, can relieve inflammation and pain.

Local steroid injections: for severe pain, anti-inflammation and relief of discomfort.

Viral causes may require antiviral drugs.

2. Physical therapy:

Apply heat or ice: At home, you can use heat to relieve muscle tension and ice to reduce inflammation.

Physical therapy: Professional physical therapists can relax the soft tissue of the chest, correct posture, and improve muscle balance.

3 Lifestyle adjustments:

Avoid strenuous physical activities such as lifting heavy objects, severe coughing, etc. to avoid increasing chest pressure.

Correct bad posture: People who work at a desk for long periods of time can improve their posture with the help of ergonomically designed chairs or support tools.

4. Medical advice

If symptoms persist for more than a week or the pain is so severe that it interferes with your daily life, you should see a doctor immediately. Your doctor may order a chest X-ray or MRI to rule out other serious conditions, such as a fracture, lung infection, or tumor.

Although intercostal rib costochondritis is not life-threatening, it can significantly affect your quality of life. Prompt professional treatment when necessary and a healthy lifestyle to prevent recurrence of inflammation can help restore normal function and comfort in the sternum area.