How to treat nonspecific costochondritis effectively

The effectiveness of nonspecific costochondritis treatment usually depends on the choice of treatment, the severity of the disease, and the individual patient's condition. Treatment for this disease includes medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle adjustments, and it also requires personalized treatment based on the specific manifestations of the patient's symptoms. If symptoms are severe, you should seek medical attention immediately.

1. Drug treatment

Nonspecific costochondritis usually presents as tenderness or chest pain near the sternum. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the first choice and can effectively relieve inflammation and pain. Drugs such as ibuprofen, naproxen or diclofenac can be taken as recommended by a doctor. If the pain is severe, local steroid injections can be considered for treatment to achieve anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. For persistent pain caused by nerve sensitivity, analgesics such as gabapentin are sometimes added, but they must be used with caution under the guidance of a doctor.

2. Physical therapy

Physical therapy is one of the adjunctive treatments for nonspecific costochondritis, including heat, ultrasound therapy, or electrical stimulation therapy. These methods can help relax the chest muscles, improve blood circulation, and relieve pain. It is generally recommended to apply heat to the affected area 2-3 times a day for 15-20 minutes each time to help relieve the discomfort caused by inflammation. If the pain is severe, you can also try targeted chest relaxation and deep breathing exercises to avoid chest stiffness that worsens symptoms.

3. Lifestyle Adjustments

Patients with nonspecific costochondritis should be careful to avoid activities that trigger or aggravate symptoms, such as strenuous exercise, heavy physical labor, or long-term poor posture. People who work at a desk for a long time or do manual labor can reduce chest pressure by adjusting their working posture. In terms of diet, it is recommended to consume foods rich in antioxidants, such as dark green vegetables and fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for relieving inflammation. In addition, moderate exercise such as yoga and stretching activities can help enhance chest flexibility.

Timely and effective treatment and care are essential. If medication and physical therapy fail to effectively relieve symptoms, local steroid injections or even surgical intervention can be further considered. While self-managing at home, if chest pain is accompanied by difficulty breathing or other severe symptoms, medical help should be sought immediately to rule out other potential critical illnesses.