What is Rib Cage Pain?
Traumatic injury, muscle strain, joint inflammation, or chronic pain may cause rib pain that appears to come from a rib and varies in severity.
Rib cage pain can be sharp, dull, or achy and is felt in the chest or below the chest or above the belly button on both sides. It can occur after an obvious or unexplained injury. Rib cage pain can be caused by a variety of things, ranging from a pulled muscle to a broken rib.
Pain can occur immediately after an injury or develop slowly over time. It may also be a sign of the underlying health problem. You should report any unexplained rib cage pain to your doctor immediately.
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Get A Second OpinionWhat Are the Causes of Rib Cage Pain?
There are many possible causes of pain in the rib cage. A doctor will diagnose the underlying cause using a physical exam and imaging scans. Common reasons for pain in the rib cage include:
Injury
Chest injuries from falls, traffic collisions, and sports-related contact are the most common cause of pain in the rib cage. Types of injuries include:
- broken ribs
- bruised ribs
- fractured ribs
- stretched muscle
Rib cage pain that begins after a wound is usually diagnosed with an X-ray to highlight bone fractures and fractures. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRIs) and other scans can detect soft tissue injury.
Costochondritis
Another common cause of chest pain is costochondritis or Tietze syndrome.
This condition is defined by inflammation of the cartilage in the rib cage. It usually occurs in the cartilage that connects the upper ribs to the breastbone, an area called the costosternal joint.
Costochondritis can cause pain in the rib cage, ranging from mild to severe. Symptoms include tenderness and pain in contact with the chest. Serious cases can cause pain that radiates to the limbs or interferes with everyday life.
Some cases of costochondritis go away without treatment, while others require medical intervention.
Pleurisy
- Pleuritis, also called pleuritis, is an inflammatory condition that affects the walls of the lungs and chest.
- The pleura are thin tissues that line the chest and lungs. In their healthy state, they glide smoothly over each other. However, inflammation causes them to rub, causing significant pain.
- Since the advent of antibiotics, pleurisy is much less common than it used to be. Even when it happens, it is often a mild condition that resolves itself. Pleuritis generally lasts from a couple of days to two weeks.
- Other inflammatory conditions of the lungs, such as bronchitis, can also cause pain around the rib cage
Cancer
One of the symptoms of lung cancer is rib cage pain or chest pain that gets worse with deep breaths, coughing, or laughing. Other symptoms to watch out for include coughing up blood or phlegm, shortness of breath, and wheezing.
The outlook for lung cancer is worse than that of other forms of cancer, and is the leading cause of cancer death in both men and women. People with early-stage lung cancer have a better chance of being cured, which underlines the importance of early intervention.
Metastatic lung cancer, or cancer that starts in one area and spreads to the lungs is a potentially fatal disease. It will also create pain in the rib cage or chest.
Fibromyalgia
It is a chronic disease causing pain throughout the body. According to estimates from the American College of Rheumatology, fibromyalgia affects between 2% and 4% of people, 90% of whom are women.
The pain associated with fibromyalgia can be a burning, throbbing, stabbing, or aching sensation. These pains are usually felt in the rib cage, although any part of the body can be affected.
Some research suggests that non-specific chest pain, including chest pain, is the most common co-occurring disease that leads to the hospitalisation of people with fibromyalgia.
Pulmonary embolism
Pulmonary embolism (PE) occurs when an artery entering the lungs is blocked. The blockage is often caused by a blood clot rising from one of the legs.
The pain associated with fibromyalgia can be a burning, throbbing, stabbing, or aching sensation. These pains are usually felt in the rib cage, although any part of the body can be affected.
In addition to chest pain, PE can cause the following symptoms:
- shortness of breath
- rapid breathing
- cough, including coughing up blood
- anxiety
- dizziness
- sweat
- irregular heartbeat
PE is a serious disease that can damage the lungs and other organs due to reduced oxygen in the blood. Anyone who has symptoms of PE should see a doctor.
How Is Rib Cage Pain Diagnosed?
- Physical Examination: A healthcare provider will assess the area for tenderness, swelling, or deformities.
- Imaging Tests: X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs may be conducted to visualize any fractures, inflammation, or structural abnormalities.
- Blood Tests: Blood work might be ordered to rule out infections or underlying medical conditions contributing to the pain.
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Book an AppointmentWhat Are the Treatment Options for Rib Cage Pain?
- Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can alleviate discomfort.
- Rest and Ice: Resting the affected area and applying ice packs can reduce inflammation and promote healing.
- Physical Therapy: Gentle exercises and stretches can strengthen the muscles around the rib cage and improve flexibility.
- Bracing: In severe cases or for rib fractures, a brace or compression garment may be recommended to stabilize the area.
- Medical Intervention: Injections or prescription medications may be necessary for managing severe or chronic rib cage pain.
What Are Some Home Remedies for Rib Cage Pain?
- Heat Therapy: Applying a warm compress or taking a warm bath can help relax tight muscles and relieve pain.
- Deep Breathing Exercises: Controlled breathing techniques can prevent shallow breathing and promote better rib cage mobility.
- Posture Correction: Maintaining good posture can alleviate pressure on the rib cage and reduce discomfort.
- Herbal Remedies: Some individuals find relief from rib cage pain by using herbal supplements like arnica or turmeric, though it's important to consult with a healthcare provider before trying any new treatment.
