What are the common symptoms of costochondritis. How is costochondritis diagnosed. What are the most effective treatments for costochondritis. Can costochondritis be mistaken for a heart attack. How long does costochondritis typically last.

Understanding Costochondritis: A Common Cause of Chest Pain

Costochondritis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the cartilage that connects the ribs to the breastbone (sternum). This inflammation can cause localized chest pain that may be sharp, aching, or pressure-like. While the pain can be alarming, costochondritis is generally not a serious condition and often resolves on its own.

Key Facts About Costochondritis:

• It primarily affects the upper ribs and breastbone area
• The pain may worsen with deep breathing, coughing, or physical activity
• It’s more common in women and people over 40
• Costochondritis is not related to heart problems, despite the similar location of pain

Recognizing the Symptoms of Costochondritis

The primary symptom of costochondritis is chest pain, but it’s important to understand its specific characteristics to differentiate it from other conditions.

Typical Symptoms Include:

• Sharp or aching pain in the front of the chest
• Pain that may radiate to the back or abdomen
• Increased pain when taking deep breaths or coughing
• Tenderness when pressing on the affected area
• Pain that may be exacerbated by certain movements or positions

Is the pain of costochondritis constant? The pain associated with costochondritis can vary in intensity and duration. Some people experience constant discomfort, while others may have intermittent pain that comes and goes. The pain often worsens with certain activities or movements that put stress on the chest wall.

Common Causes and Risk Factors for Costochondritis

While the exact cause of costochondritis is not always clear, several factors can contribute to its development.

Potential Causes Include:

• Physical strain or injury to the chest wall
• Repetitive motions involving the upper body
• Viral or bacterial infections
• Certain medical conditions, such as fibromyalgia or arthritis
• Chest surgery or procedures

Are there any specific activities that increase the risk of developing costochondritis? Yes, certain activities that involve repeated stress on the chest wall can increase the risk. These may include heavy lifting, intense exercise involving the upper body, or prolonged periods of coughing. Additionally, people with certain occupations that require repetitive arm and chest movements may be more susceptible to developing costochondritis.

Diagnosing Costochondritis: What to Expect

Diagnosing costochondritis typically involves a physical examination and a review of your medical history. Your healthcare provider will likely perform the following steps:

1. Ask about your symptoms and when they started
2. Perform a physical examination, including pressing on your chest wall to check for tenderness
3. Rule out other potential causes of chest pain, such as heart or lung problems
4. In some cases, order imaging tests like X-rays or CT scans to exclude other conditions

Are blood tests necessary for diagnosing costochondritis? Blood tests are not typically required to diagnose costochondritis. However, your doctor may order blood tests to rule out other conditions or to check for signs of inflammation or infection if they suspect these factors may be contributing to your symptoms.

Effective Treatment Options for Costochondritis

Treatment for costochondritis focuses on managing pain and reducing inflammation. The approach may vary depending on the severity of symptoms and individual factors.

Common Treatment Strategies Include:

• Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or naproxen
• Application of heat or ice to the affected area
• Rest and avoidance of activities that exacerbate pain
• Gentle stretching exercises
• In some cases, physical therapy or local injections of corticosteroids

How long does it typically take for costochondritis to resolve with treatment? The duration of costochondritis can vary significantly from person to person. In many cases, symptoms may improve within a few weeks with appropriate treatment and rest. However, some individuals may experience persistent symptoms for several months. Consistent adherence to treatment recommendations and avoiding aggravating factors can help speed up recovery.

Distinguishing Costochondritis from Heart-Related Chest Pain

One of the primary concerns when experiencing chest pain is the possibility of a heart-related issue. While costochondritis can cause significant discomfort, it’s important to understand how it differs from cardiac chest pain.

Key Differences Between Costochondritis and Heart Attack Pain:

• Costochondritis pain is often localized and worsens with chest wall movement or pressure
• Heart attack pain typically radiates to the arm, jaw, or back and may be accompanied by shortness of breath, nausea, or sweating
• Costochondritis pain can usually be reproduced by pressing on the affected area
• Heart attack pain is generally not affected by changes in position or localized pressure

Should you seek immediate medical attention if you suspect costochondritis? If you’re experiencing new or severe chest pain, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and seek medical evaluation. While costochondritis is generally not life-threatening, chest pain can be a symptom of more serious conditions. A healthcare professional can properly assess your symptoms and provide an accurate diagnosis.

Lifestyle Modifications and Prevention Strategies for Costochondritis

While costochondritis can’t always be prevented, certain lifestyle changes and preventive measures may help reduce the risk of developing the condition or experiencing recurrent episodes.

Preventive Measures Include:

• Practicing good posture to reduce stress on the chest wall
• Using proper form when lifting heavy objects or performing repetitive upper body movements
• Engaging in regular, low-impact exercise to maintain chest wall flexibility
• Managing stress through relaxation techniques or mindfulness practices
• Avoiding or quitting smoking, which can irritate the chest wall

Can dietary changes help prevent or manage costochondritis? While there’s no specific diet proven to prevent or treat costochondritis, maintaining a healthy, balanced diet can support overall health and reduce inflammation in the body. Some individuals find that avoiding inflammatory foods and incorporating anti-inflammatory nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids may help manage symptoms.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Chest Pain

While costochondritis is often benign, it’s crucial to recognize situations that warrant immediate medical attention. Chest pain can be a symptom of various conditions, some of which may be life-threatening.

Seek Emergency Care If You Experience:

• Severe, crushing chest pain
• Chest pain accompanied by shortness of breath, dizziness, or fainting
• Pain that radiates to the arm, jaw, or back
• Chest pain associated with a rapid or irregular heartbeat
• Any chest pain if you have a history of heart disease or are at high risk for cardiovascular problems

How can you differentiate between a panic attack and costochondritis? Both conditions can cause chest pain and discomfort, but there are some key differences. Panic attacks often come on suddenly and are accompanied by intense anxiety, rapid heartbeat, and a sense of impending doom. Costochondritis pain is typically more localized and can be reproduced by touching the affected area. If you’re unsure, it’s always best to seek medical evaluation to determine the cause of your symptoms.

Costochondritis, while often uncomfortable and concerning, is generally a benign condition that can be effectively managed with proper care and treatment. By understanding its symptoms, causes, and treatment options, individuals can better navigate this common source of chest pain. Remember, any new or severe chest pain should be evaluated by a healthcare professional to ensure proper diagnosis and appropriate management.

Chest Problems | Kaiser Permanente

Do you have a problem in the chest area, such as pain or an injury?

Yes

Symptoms in chest area

No

Symptoms in chest area

How old are you?

Less than 12 years

Less than 12 years

12 years or older

12 years or older

Are you male or female?

Male

Male

Female

Female

• If you are transgender or nonbinary, choose the sex that matches the body parts (such as ovaries, testes, prostate, breasts, penis, or vagina) you now have in the area where you are having symptoms.
• If your symptoms aren’t related to those organs, you can choose the gender you identify with.
• If you have some organs of both sexes, you may need to go through this triage tool twice (once as “male” and once as “female”). This will make sure that the tool asks the right questions for you.

Do you have only breathing problems with no other symptoms?

Yes

Respiratory problem

No

Respiratory problem

Do you have moderate or severe belly pain?

This is not the cramping type of pain you have with diarrhea.

Yes

Abdominal pain

No

Abdominal pain

Is your main symptom a cough?

Yes

Cough

No

Cough

Could you be having symptoms of a heart attack?

If you’re having a heart attack, there are several areas where you may feel pain or other symptoms.

Yes

Symptoms of heart attack

No

Symptoms of heart attack

Do you have symptoms of shock?

The symptoms in an adult or older child are different than the symptoms in a young child.

Yes

Symptoms of shock

No

Symptoms of shock

Do you have any shortness of breath that is not caused by pain?

Pain may make it hurt to breathe, but this is not the same as being short of breath.

Yes

Shortness of breath

No

Shortness of breath

Would you describe your shortness of breath as severe, moderate, or mild?

Severe

Severe shortness of breath

Moderate

Moderate shortness of breath

Mild

Mild shortness of breath

Have you been diagnosed with angina?

Yes

Diagnosed with angina

No

Diagnosed with angina

Has there been a change in your angina over the past week?

Yes

Change in angina in the past week

No

Change in angina in the past week

Is your treatment plan controlling the angina?

If the plan is working, it should either make the symptoms go away or get them back to the level they were at before the angina got worse.

Yes

Treatment plan is controlling symptoms

No

Treatment plan is controlling symptoms

Over the last few months, have you been getting angina more often or has it been worse than usual?

Yes

Angina occurring more often or getting worse

No

Angina occurring more often or getting worse

Have you had any symptoms that you think may have been caused by your heart?

These could include pain, pressure, or a strange feeling in the chest or a nearby area, like your neck or shoulder. Other symptoms can include shortness of breath, nausea or vomiting, or lightheadedness.

Yes

Possible heart symptoms

No

Possible heart symptoms

How recently did you have these symptoms?

Within the past week

Heart-related symptoms within the past week

More than a week ago

Heart-related symptoms more than a week ago

Have you had an injury to your chest in the past 2 weeks?

Yes

Chest injury within past 2 weeks

No

Chest injury within past 2 weeks

Is there any blood in your urine?

This can happen if you get hit in the ribs or side and damage the kidneys.

Yes

Blood in urine

No

Blood in urine

Are you coughing up blood?

This means blood that is coming up from your chest or throat. Blood that is draining down from your nose into your throat (because of a nosebleed, for example) is not the same thing.

Yes

Coughing up blood

No

Coughing up blood

How much blood is there?

A lot of bright red blood [2 tsp (10 mL) or more]

Large amount [2 tsp (10 mL)] of bright red blood in sputum

Streaks of bright red blood

Streaks of bright red blood in sputum

Specks or spots of blood

Specks or spots of blood in sputum

Has this been going on for more than 2 days?

Yes

Specks or spots of blood in sputum for more than 2 days

No

Specks or spots of blood in sputum for more than 2 days

Do you take a medicine that affects the blood’s ability to clot?

This may include blood thinners and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin and ibuprofen. These medicines can cause bleeding and can make it harder to control bleeding.

Yes

Takes medicine that affects blood’s ability to clot

No

Takes medicine that affects blood’s ability to clot

Do you have pain in your ribs or the muscles of your chest?

This type of pain may feel worse when you press on or move the area or when you take a deep breath.

Yes

Pain in chest wall

No

Pain in chest wall

How bad is the pain on a scale of 0 to 10, if 0 is no pain and 10 is the worst pain you can imagine?

8 to 10: Severe pain

Severe pain

5 to 7: Moderate pain

Moderate pain

1 to 4: Mild pain

Mild pain

Has the pain:

Gotten worse?

Pain is getting worse

Stayed about the same (not better or worse)?

Pain is unchanged

Gotten better?

Pain is getting better

Do you know what caused the pain, such as severe sneezing or coughing?

Yes

Pain is from sneezing, coughing, or other known cause

No

Pain is from sneezing, coughing, or other known cause

Has the pain lasted for more than 2 days?

Yes

Pain for more than 2 days

No

Pain for more than 2 days

Do you have pain deep in one leg?

Sudden chest pain that occurs with deep pain or swelling in one leg can be a symptom of a blood clot that has moved from the leg to the lung.

Yes

Leg pain

No

Leg pain

Do you think the chest problem may be causing a fever?

Yes

Possible fever

No

Possible fever

Do you have a new rash on only one side of your chest? The rash may be in a strip or band.

Yes

New rash on only one side

No

New rash on only one side

Have you had symptoms for more than a week?

Yes

Chest symptoms for more than a week

No

Chest symptoms for more than a week

Many things can affect how your body responds to a symptom and what kind of care you may need. These include:

• Your age. Babies and older adults tend to get sicker quicker.
• Your overall health. If you have a condition such as diabetes, HIV, cancer, or heart disease, you may need to pay closer attention to certain symptoms and seek care sooner.
• Medicines you take. Certain medicines, such as blood thinners (anticoagulants), medicines that suppress the immune system like steroids or chemotherapy, herbal remedies, or supplements can cause symptoms or make them worse.
• Recent health events, such as surgery or injury. These kinds of events can cause symptoms afterwards or make them more serious.
• Your health habits and lifestyle, such as eating and exercise habits, smoking, alcohol or drug use, sexual history, and travel.

Try Home Treatment

You have answered all the questions. Based on your answers, you may be able to take care of this problem at home.

• Try home treatment to relieve the symptoms.
• Call your doctor if symptoms get worse or you have any concerns (for example, if symptoms are not getting better as you would expect). You may need care sooner.

Pain in adults and older children

• Severe pain (8 to 10): The pain is so bad that you can’t stand it for more than a few hours, can’t sleep, and can’t do anything else except focus on the pain.
• Moderate pain (5 to 7): The pain is bad enough to disrupt your normal activities and your sleep, but you can tolerate it for hours or days. Moderate can also mean pain that comes and goes even if it’s severe when it’s there.
• Mild pain (1 to 4): You notice the pain, but it is not bad enough to disrupt your sleep or activities.

Severe trouble breathing means:

• You cannot talk at all.
• You have to work very hard to breathe.
• You feel like you can’t get enough air.
• You do not feel alert or cannot think clearly.

Moderate trouble breathing means:

• It’s hard to talk in full sentences.
• It’s hard to breathe with activity.

Mild trouble breathing means:

• You feel a little out of breath but can still talk.
• It’s becoming hard to breathe with activity.

Shock is a life-threatening condition that may quickly occur after a sudden illness or injury.

Adults and older children often have several symptoms of shock. These include:

• Passing out (losing consciousness).
• Feeling very dizzy or lightheaded, like you may pass out.
• Feeling very weak or having trouble standing.
• Not feeling alert or able to think clearly. You may be confused, restless, fearful, or unable to respond to questions.

Shock is a life-threatening condition that may occur quickly after a sudden illness or injury.

Babies and young children often have several symptoms of shock. These include:

• Passing out (losing consciousness).
• Being very sleepy or hard to wake up.
• Not responding when being touched or talked to.
• Breathing much faster than usual.
• Acting confused. The child may not know where he or she is.

Symptoms of a heart attack may include:

• Chest pain or pressure, or a strange feeling in the chest.
• Sweating.
• Shortness of breath.
• Nausea or vomiting.
• Pain, pressure, or a strange feeling in the back, neck, jaw, or upper belly, or in one or both shoulders or arms.
• Lightheadedness or sudden weakness.
• A fast or irregular heartbeat.

For men and women, the most common symptom is chest pain or pressure. But women are somewhat more likely than men to have other symptoms like shortness of breath, tiredness, nausea, and back or jaw pain.

Seek Care Today

Based on your answers, you may need care soon. The problem probably will not get better without medical care.

• Call your doctor today to discuss the symptoms and arrange for care.
• If you cannot reach your doctor or you don’t have one, seek care today.
• If it is evening, watch the symptoms and seek care in the morning.
• If the symptoms get worse, seek care sooner.

Make an Appointment

Based on your answers, the problem may not improve without medical care.

• Make an appointment to see your doctor in the next 1 to 2 weeks.
• If appropriate, try home treatment while you are waiting for the appointment.
• If symptoms get worse or you have any concerns, call your doctor. You may need care sooner.

Seek Care Now

Based on your answers, you may need care right away. The problem is likely to get worse without medical care.

• Call your doctor now to discuss the symptoms and arrange for care.
• If you cannot reach your doctor or you don’t have one, seek care in the next hour.
• You do not need to call an ambulance unless:
  • You cannot travel safely either by driving yourself or by having someone else drive you.
  • You are in an area where heavy traffic or other problems may slow you down.

Call 911 Now

Based on your answers, you need emergency care.

Call 911 or other emergency services now.

Sometimes people don’t want to call 911. They may think that their symptoms aren’t serious or that they can just get someone else to drive them. Or they might be concerned about the cost. But based on your answers, the safest and quickest way for you to get the care you need is to call 911 for medical transport to the hospital.

Call 911 Now

Based on your answers, you need emergency care.

Call 911 or other emergency services now.

After you call 911, the operator may tell you to chew 1 adult-strength (325 mg) or 2 to 4 low-dose (81 mg) aspirin. Wait for an ambulance. Do not try to drive yourself.

Sometimes people don’t want to call 911. They may think that their symptoms aren’t serious or that they can just get someone else to drive them. Or they might be concerned about the cost. But based on your answers, the safest and quickest way for you to get the care you need is to call 911 for medical transport to the hospital.

Abdominal Pain, Age 11 and Younger

Respiratory Problems, Age 11 and Younger

Coughs, Age 12 and Older

Abdominal Pain, Age 12 and Older

Respiratory Problems, Age 12 and Older

Coughs, Age 11 and Younger

Osteo for Costochondritis | Rib Pain — Osteopath Hawthorn

Dec 3

Written By Dr. Abbas Din (Osteopath)

What is Costochondritis?

Costochondritis occurs where there is inflammation of the cartilage that connects the rib bones with the breastbone (sternum). This inflammation results in chest pain and tenderness, often at the fourth, fifth and sixth ribs. Pain is usually sharp and located on the front chest wall. However, in some instances, it may radiate to the back or abdomen to cause back pain or belly pain.

Chest or rib pain may worsen with:

• A particular posture, such as lying down

• Pressure on your chest, such as wearing a seatbelt or hugging someone

• Deep breathing, coughing and sneezing

• Physical activity.

Costochondritis does not cause chest swelling. If you are experiencing chest pain, tenderness and swelling, then it is likely that you are suffering from a condition called Tietze’s syndrome.   Tietze’s syndrome causes localised swelling to the joints involved the second and third ribs, as well as the symptoms associated with costochondritis.

Costochondritis also does not cause shortness of breath. If you are having trouble breathing and are experiencing sudden chest pain, dial 000 immediately and ask for an ambulance assistance.

What causes Costochondritis?

The cause of costochondritis is usually unknown. Inflammation may be caused by:

What is Tietze Syndrome?

Tiezte syndrome is a rare, inflammatory disorder that is often confused with costochondritis. The exact cause of Tiezte syndrome is still unknown. The condition is characterised by chest pain and swelling of the cartilage of one or two of the upper ribs (usually second or third rib). The pain may radiate to the neck, arms and shoulders and worsens with sneezing, coughing or strenuous exercise. Tietze syndrome usually occurs in individuals younger than 40 years old. 

Who is at risk of developing Costochondritis?

Costochondritis affects females more often than males (70% versus 30%), and is most common in people over the age of 40 years old.

How is it Costochondritis diagnosed?

The diagnosis of Costochondritis is usually achieved by reproducing the complaining pain when the practitioner palpates the affected joint of the chest wall that connects the rib to the breastbone. They will assess for any tenderness and swelling during the physical examination.

Although costochondritis is usually self-limited and benign, a more serious cause of chest pain should be ruled out especially in patients that are 35 years old or older, those with a history or risk of coronary artery disease, and any patient with heart symptoms. Your practitioner may perform a heart examination, gastrointestinal examination or may request an electrocardiogram and a chest radiograph (CT scan or MRI) to eliminate any serious conditions.

How do I know if I’m having a heart attack VS Costochondritis?

Chest pain caused by Costochondritis can mimic chest pain caused by a heart attack. Both pains begin from the chest walls and usually involves the joints between the breastbone and the ribs. However, pain caused by Costochondritis is usually described as sharp and worsens with movement, respiration and simple palpation of the site. Heart attacks (clinically known as angina pectoris) are characteristically a heavy crushing sensation at the site of the heart. Chest pain that is not reproduced by touch usually indicates a cardiac condition. It also worsens with exertion such as walking uphill.

Costochondritis will also persist through the day, while pain due to angina pectoris tends to wax and wane. Cardiac pain also characteristically radiates to the arm (usually left), jaw, neck or upper back.

What treatments are there if you have Costochondritis?

Costochondritis often gets better after a few weeks, but self-help measures and medication can manage the symptoms of the rib pain.

Home Management Plan for Costochondritis?

• Avoiding aggravating activities: Costochondritis can be aggravated by any activity that places stress on your chest area, such as strenuous exercise, or even simple movements like reaching for a cupboard. Any activity that worsens your symptoms should be avoided until the inflammation in your ribs and cartilage has improved.

• Ice/Heat: A recent study has found that with most musculoskeletal conditions, the benefits of heat versus ice is really up to patient preference as they found one did not work significantly better than the other with many conditions. This means that experimenting with the two to see which your pain responds to is the best method.

What type of medication is suitable for Costochondritis?

Your GP may prescribe you some medication to reduce inflammation such as ibuprofen or naproxen. Side effects might include damage to your stomach lining and kidneys, so be sure to speak to your GP and use only as directed. Severe pain may be dealt with prescription of medications containing codeine, such as hydrocodone/acetaminophen (Vicodin, Norco) or oxycodone/acetaminophen (Tylox, Roxicet, Percocet). However, it must be noted that narcotics can be habit-forming.

If conservative measures don’t work, your doctor might suggest injecting numbing medication and a corticosteroid directly into the painful joint.

Can Osteopaths treat Costochondritis?

• Your osteopath will be able to help you identify the actions in your day-to-day life, which may be contributing to your condition.

• Your osteopath may introduce gentle stretching exercises for the chest muscles. Pectoralis major and pectoralis minor stretches can greatly reduce the severity of pain as well as reduce the rate of reoccurrence.

• Nerve stimulation. In a procedure called transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), a device sends a weak electrical current via adhesive patches on the skin near the area of pain. The current might interrupt or mask pain signals, preventing them from reaching your brain.

• Specific soft tissue, joint manipulation and adjunct treatment techniques are just some of the modalities that can be implemented during your 45min appointment to promote tissue healing and decrease inflammation.

What stretches should I do for Costochondritis?

Standing parallel to a doorway, have your forearm flat against the wall.

1. Slowly bring one leg in front of the other and lean forwards until your feel a stretch in the chest.

2. Hold for 30 seconds. Repeat with the various positions.

Our team of qualified osteopaths serve the areas of Hawthorn, Kew, Balwyn, Canterbury, Camberwell, Richmond and Glen Iris. If you’re experiencing rib pain in the front of your chest that may be symptoms of costochondritis, book an appointment with one of the caring osteopaths at Doctors of Osteo for help.

Providing healthcare with our osteopaths near me in Hawthorn, Hawthorn East, Kew, Balwyn, Canterbury, Camberwell, Camberwell East, Richmond, Malvern and Glen Iris.

BOOK AN OSTEOPATHY TREATMENT FOR COSTOCHONDRITIS

Dr. Abbas Din (Osteopath)

Director – Doctors of Osteo 

https://www.doctorsofosteo.com.au

Thoracic sciatica: symptoms and treatment

Free appointment
and diagnostics

Pain relief
in 1-2 sessions

Author’s method 900 05 treatment

Internships in the USA,
Israel, Germany

Thoracic sciatica is an inflammatory process that affects one or more spinal roots located in the thoracic region of the spinal cord. A distinctive feature of this type of sciatica is its ability to mimic symptoms, lesions of internal organs. This phenomenon is caused by damage to the vegetative fibers emerging from the ganglion nodes of the spinal cord as part of the spinal roots and innervating the organs of the chest (heart, lungs) and upper abdominal cavity.

1

Positive dynamics in 97% of cases

The results of the treatment course are confirmed by control MRI images.

2

No side effects

The methods used in our clinic are safe and have no side effects.

3

Long-term effect

Treatment minimizes the risk of new hernias in other segments, as well as hernia recurrence.

Features of the anatomy of the thoracic spine

Unlike other parts of the spinal column – the cervical and lumbosacral – the thoracic segment of the spine is less mobile, as it is part of the chest. The thoracic spine is made up of 12 vertebrae that connect to the ribs to form the chest. The rigid frame of the chest significantly reduces the mobility and flexibility of this section of the spine, so the thoracic vertebrae are less susceptible to deformities and degenerative processes.

The main causes of the disease

As an etiological factor, there are various effects that cause irritation and inflammation of the spinal roots.

Primary sciatica develops with hypothermia or as a result of direct action on the nerve root of an infectious agent (herpes, influenza, chicken pox).

Secondary sciatica occurs already against the background of existing pathologies in the spine (spondylarthrosis, osteochondrosis, ankylosing spondylitis).

The most likely causes of thoracic sciatica:

• Degenerative-dystrophic processes of the cartilage and bone tissue of the spine (intervertebral protrusions and hernias) in osteochondrosis.
• Curvature of the spine in different planes – scoliosis
• Congenital malformations of the spine: aplasia or fusion of the vertebral bodies, additional ribs.
• Connective tissue diseases: rheumatoid arthritis, lupus erythematosus, scleroderma
• Traumatic injuries of the spine or costal arches: subluxation of the vertebrae, fractures of the ribs.
• Myositis is an inflammatory process in the muscles that cover the chest.
• Infectious and inflammatory processes affecting the spine.
• Metastases of malignant tumors in the thoracic spine.
• Foraminal stenosis – narrowing of the spinal canal.

Factors contributing to the development of pathology:

• Overweight.
• Weightlifting.
• Dysmetabolic disorders in endocrine pathologies: diabetes mellitus, thyroid disease.
• Adynamia, sedentary lifestyle.
• Excessive exercise.
• Non-physiological trunk movements with torso twisting.

Symptoms

The main clinical manifestation of thoracic sciatica is intercostal neuralgia – this is a sudden intense pain emanating from the spine and going along the intercostal spaces. Girdle pain, in acute attacks it is sharp cutting in nature, aggravated by sharp turns, coughing, sneezing, physical activity.

A pathognomonic symptom that helps in differential diagnosis is the appearance of sharp pain when pressing on points located in the intercostal space on the lateral surface of the chest and along the spine.

Often, in addition to pain, zones with altered skin sensitivity appear on the surface of the chest: numbness, burning. Patients, trying to reduce pain, avoid choppy movements, take a forced posture with the torso tilted towards the lesion.

Signs of thoracic radiculitis are often similar to symptoms of other somatic diseases, which can lead to a false diagnosis of diseases of the internal organs.

Visceral pain:

Damage to the spinal roots Th2-Th4 is accompanied by painful sensations, often mistaken for a heart attack: increased heart rate, increased pressure.

If the pathology is concentrated in the Th5-Th6 region of the thoracic vertebrae, there are signs of an “acute” abdomen, since the spinal nerve roots of this section are connected with the esophagus, stomach, duodenum and gallbladder. There may be nausea, vomiting, muscle tension in the anterior abdominal wall.

Involvement of Th9–Th22 roots in the pathological process causes pain in the area of ​​the liver, pancreas, and intestines. In violation of intestinal motility – bloating, flatulence, alternating diarrhea with constipation.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of thoracic sciatica is aimed at confirming the radicular nature of the pain syndrome and identifying the cause of its occurrence.

Diagnostic measures include studying the medical history, examining the patient, assessing the neurological status, prescribing laboratory and instrumental studies.

A clinical blood test is performed to detect inflammatory processes in the body (accelerated ESR, leukocytosis).

X-ray of the thoracic spine allows you to identify the affected segment.

CT, MRI make it possible to identify the location of inflammation, the degree of changes in the affected spinal roots, help to detect other pathologies of the spinal column: tumors, hernias.

Electroneuromyography – the method allows to assess the functional state of nerve fibers, as well as the degree and level of their damage.

In the course of differential diagnosis, in order to exclude or confirm somatic pathology, depending on complaints and the clinical picture, consultations of narrow specialists, ECG, ultrasound of the abdominal organs, chest X-ray, gastroduodenoscopy and other studies are prescribed.

Treatment success is 90% dependent on experience
and physician qualifications.

Free medical consultation and diagnostics

• Chiropractor
• Vertebrologist
• Osteopath
• Neurologist

During the consultation, we carry out a thorough diagnosis of the entire spine and each segment. We are exactly
we determine which segments and nerve roots are involved and cause symptoms of pain. As a result of the consultation
We give detailed recommendations for treatment and, if necessary, prescribe additional diagnostics.

1

Perform functional diagnostics of the spine

2

Let’s perform a manipulation that significantly relieves pain

3

We will create an individual treatment program

Book a free appointment

Treatment

In traditional medicine, treatment of thoracic sciatica is carried out symptomatically – a course of injections of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxants, vitamins of group B is prescribed. After the acute pain syndrome is removed, physiotherapy and massage are added to the treatment regimen. Symptomatic therapy only temporarily weakens the manifestations of the disease, but does not affect the underlying cause of the disease, so the attacks will be repeated.

Doctors of Dr. Length clinic in the treatment of sciatica use complex methods , including manual methods and osteopathy, which not only allow you to quickly get rid of inflammation and pain, but can stop the progression of the underlying pathological process, preventing it from moving into the chronic stage.

In the clinic for the treatment of spinal pathologies, the author’s Di-Tazin therapy method developed by Dr. Dlin is widely used.

Di-Tazin therapy contains three components: manual therapy, electrophoresis and photodynamic laser therapy.

Manual therapy in the treatment of sciatica, affecting the soft tissues surrounding the spine, eliminates the consequences of infringement of the spinal roots, corrects the relative position of the vertebral bodies relative to each other. As a result, radicular symptoms are eliminated, pain decreases, blood circulation normalizes and tissue metabolism improves, and spinal mobility is restored. Sparing painless manual manipulations are easily tolerated even by elderly patients, after which there are no complications.

Electrophoresis is a method of introducing drugs into the body using direct current. The drug enters directly into the pathological focus, bypassing the general blood flow and immediately begins to have a therapeutic effect. At the same time, a depot is created at the site of the active electrode, from which the drug enters the cells gradually.

Photodynamic laser therapy is a therapeutic procedure in which the drug, activated by laser radiation, penetrates deep into the tissues and accumulates in the affected area. A special photosensitive agent is applied to the skin at the site of pain localization, then the application site is treated with a laser with a given length of the light beam. The activated drug acts at the cellular level, enhances and accelerates regeneration processes, improves blood microcirculation, relieves swelling and pain. The method is highly effective, noticeable improvements are observed after the second session.

Additional methods that restore the functions of the spine include:

• Shock wave therapy.
• Taping.
• Massage.
• LFC.

Therapeutic methods used in Dr. Length’s clinic have been tested in the leading centers of manual therapy in Europe and the USA, they are safe, highly effective and retain a long-term therapeutic effect.

We are recommended by 94% of patients.
Thank you for your trust and your choice.

Material verified by an expert

Mikhailov Valery Borisovich

Manual therapist, vertebrologist, neurologist

Work experience – 25 years

Video testimonials of patients

Articular block in the neck 900 06 Hernia in the lower back and neck

Clinic Dr. Length I came in with spinal problems. With two intervertebral lower hernias and two intervertebral hernias in the neck. I was assigned a comprehensive 10 step program. For 4 months, my lower vertebrae completely disappeared and crunches in my neck disappeared …

Lumbo-sacral hernia

“After the first time, my back stopped hurting. I felt relieved. Now 7 sessions have already passed and the back really does not hurt. I began to forget about it. And at first it hurt a lot.”

Inflammation of the sciatic nerve

“For 4 months I suffered from severe inflammation of the sciatic nerve on the right side. After the first visit, relief came immediately within six hours. After 6 courses, the pain was almost gone.

Pain in the lower back and leg

Yakovleva Natalya Mikhailovna
Head of the department, surgeon of the highest category, oncologist-mammologist
I want to express my deep gratitude for the fact that I was put on my feet in the truest sense of the word. I came to the clinic a month and a half ago with severe pain in the lower back and leg. These complaints were long enough and the treatment that I used in the past was ineffective. Fortunately, I ended up in the clinic of Dr. Length and his team of super professionals!

Osteochondrosis of the cervical spine

“I applied 2 months ago with osteochondrosis of the cervical spine. I have a sedentary job and my neck muscles were very cramped. It was impossible to work. Before that, I went to other doctors, but this did not solve my problem. For 2 months I have a fairly positive dynamics. Every week it gets better and better.”

Bechterew’s disease

“I have had Bechterew’s disease for 10 years. The vertebrae began to move out, I began to slouch. I turned to other chiropractors, very famous, media ones. In the end, I didn’t get any results. After 2 sessions I felt much better. Now I don’t have any pain.”

Pain in the spine

“I came in with problems in my back, cervical, thoracic and lumbar spine. I was prescribed procedures, had a massage, and was assigned to do physical education at home. This made it much easier for me. I’m already turning my head. I have no pain.”

Shoulder shoulder periarthrosis

I went to the clinic with severe pain in my shoulder. My hand did not rise, I could not sleep at night, I woke up from pain. After the first treatment session, I felt much better. Somewhere in the middle of the course, my hand began to rise, I began to sleep at night.

Arthrosis of the knee joint, 2nd degree

She came in with a very serious illness. I could not walk, I have arthrosis of the 2nd degree of the knee joint. I went through a course of treatment at the Clinic and now I am going 100%.

Herniated disc

“I came to the clinic after I had back pain and it turned out to be a herniated disc. I went to other places, but they only relieved attacks of pain. Hope for a return to normal life was given only by Sergei Vladimirovich, his golden hands!

Scoliosis

“Since I was a teenager, I have suffered from scoliosis in the thoracic region. I felt a feeling of discomfort, tension, periodic pain in the spine. I turned to various specialists, a massage therapist, an osteopath, but I did not feel a strong effect. After treatment, Length S.V. I almost have a straight spine. Currently, I do not feel any problems and discomfort.”

Intervertebral hernia

“At the 5th-6th session there was an improvement. I felt much better. The pain is gone. Improvement progressed more and more each time. Lesson 10 today. I feel great.”

Pain in the lumbar and cervical region

“I am 21 years old. I went to the clinic with discomfort in the lumbar and cervical region. I also sometimes had sharp pains. After undergoing therapy, I felt a significant improvement in my back. I have no pain. The condition as a whole has improved.”

Pain in the back

“At the beginning of the path of treatment, my back hurt very badly. I could no longer walk. I take 5 steps and stop. My entire journey consisted of such stops. In the very first procedure, I left the office with no pain in my spine.”

Cervical hernia

“I came in with a problem in my neck and my right arm was very sore. The neck did not turn, the hand did not rise. After the 3rd session, I felt better. After the 5th, all this pain began to decrease. It turns out I have 2 hernias in my cervical vertebrae. After the sessions, I did an MRI and one hernia decreased. Now he began to move, his hand earned.

Pain in the neck

“I went to Dr. Long because I had a very bad pain in my neck on the right side. I fell on a snowboard 5 years ago, even went to an osteopath, but somehow it didn’t really help. Now everything is fine, there are some consequences left, the muscles were spasmodic. When I came, I had steel muscles, now my neck is very soft.”

Pain in the thoracic region

“I came to the clinic with back pain, namely in the thoracic region. After 10 sessions of treatment, I could already calmly go about my usual business, stay at work until lunch, without howling in pain. Now I’ve come back for an adjustment after 2 months. I’m fine, my back doesn’t hurt.”

Hernia and protrusion

“I came to the clinic with L4-L5 hernia and L5-S1 protrusion. Today the course of treatment has ended. Lower back hurt, it was difficult to bend down. After completing the course and receiving instructions in the form of physical exercises, it became much easier. After a month of treatment, I do not feel any stiffness of movements. ”

Pain in the lower back and hip joint

“I have been suffering from back pain since I was young. When they became unbearable, I went to Dr. Length’s clinic. Already after the first procedure, the pain in the hip joint was gone. After the third procedure, the shooting pains in the lower back stopped.

Applying today will help

avoid surgery tomorrow!

Relieve pain and inflammation

After 2-3 treatments, exhausting pain goes away, you feel better.

Eliminate the cause of the disease

Comprehensive rehabilitation of the spine improves well-being: you feel a surge of strength and energy.

Let’s start the regeneration process

The process of restoration of damaged tissues begins, hernias and protrusions decrease.

Let’s strengthen the muscular corset

Strong back muscles support the spinal column, preventing the recurrence of the disease.

We treat

• The author’s method of treating lumbago
• Headaches in osteochondrosis of the cervical spine
• Spinal osteophytes
• Heel spur treatment
• Dangling unstable joint – types, symptoms, treatment
• Vertebral antelesthesis

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First aid | VCERM them. A.M. Nikiforov EMERCOM of Russia in St. Petersburg

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The ability to provide first aid is an elementary but very important skill. In an emergency, he can save someone’s life. Here are 10 basic first aid skills. In this section, you will learn what to do in case of bleeding, fractures, poisoning, frostbite, and other emergencies. You will also learn about common mistakes that can put the victim’s life in serious danger.

First aid is a set of urgent measures aimed at saving a person’s life. An accident, a sudden attack of illness, poisoning – in these and other emergencies, competent first aid is needed.

According to the law, first aid is not medical – it is provided before the arrival of doctors or the delivery of the victim to the hospital. First aid can be provided by anyone who is at a critical moment next to the victim. For some categories of citizens, first aid is an official duty. We are talking about police officers, traffic police and the Ministry of Emergency Situations, military personnel, firefighters.

First aid algorithm

In order not to get confused and competently provide first aid, it is important to follow the following sequence of actions:

1. Make sure you are safe and do not endanger yourself when giving first aid.
2. Ensure the safety of the victim and bystanders (eg remove the victim from a burning car).
3. Check for signs of life (pulse, respiration, pupillary reaction to light) and consciousness in the victim. To check for breathing, you need to tilt the victim’s head back, bend over to his mouth and nose and try to hear or feel breathing. To detect the pulse, it is necessary to attach the fingertips to the carotid artery of the victim. To assess consciousness, it is necessary (if possible) to take the victim by the shoulders, shake gently and ask a question.
4. Call specialists: 112 – from a mobile phone, from a landline – 03 (ambulance) or 01 (rescuers).
5. Provide emergency first aid. Depending on the situation, this may be:
   – restoration of airway patency;
   – cardiopulmonary resuscitation;
   – stop bleeding and other measures.
6. Provide the victim with physical and psychological comfort, wait for the arrival of specialists.

CPR

Artificial lung ventilation (ALV) is the introduction of air (or oxygen) into the respiratory tract of a person in order to restore natural ventilation of the lungs. Refers to elementary resuscitation measures.

Typical situations requiring mechanical ventilation:

• car accident;
  water accident;
  electric shock and others.

There are various ways to ventilate. Mouth-to-mouth and mouth-to-nose artificial respiration is considered the most effective in providing first aid to a non-specialist.

If no natural respiration is detected on examination, immediately administer artificial respiration.

Mouth-to-mouth resuscitation technique

1. Maintain a clear upper airway. Turn the head of the victim to one side and use your finger to remove mucus, blood, foreign objects from the oral cavity. Check the victim’s nasal passages, clean them if necessary.
2. Tilt the victim’s head back while holding the neck with one hand.

   Do not change the position of the victim’s head in case of a spinal injury!

3. Place a tissue, handkerchief, piece of cloth or gauze over the victim’s mouth to protect yourself from infections. Pinch the victim’s nose with your thumb and forefinger. Inhale deeply, press your lips tightly against the victim’s mouth. Exhale into the victim’s lungs.

   The first 5-10 breaths should be fast (20-30 seconds), then 12-15 breaths per minute.

4. Watch the movement of the victim’s chest. If the victim’s chest rises when inhaling air, then you are doing everything right.

Chest compressions

If there is no pulse with breathing, chest compressions should be performed.

An indirect (closed) heart massage, or chest compression, is the compression of the muscles of the heart between the sternum and the spine in order to maintain the circulation of a person during cardiac arrest. Refers to elementary resuscitation measures.

Attention! It is impossible to carry out a closed heart massage in the presence of a pulse.

Chest Compression Technique

1. Lay the victim down on a flat, hard surface. Do not perform chest compressions on a bed or other soft surfaces.
2. Locate the affected xiphoid process. The xiphoid process is the shortest and narrowest part of the sternum, its end.
3. Measure 2-4 cm upward from the xiphoid process – this is the point of compression.
4. Place the base of your hand on the compression point. In this case, the thumb should point either to the chin or to the stomach of the victim, depending on the location of the resuscitator. Place the other hand on top of one hand, fold your fingers into the lock. Pressing is carried out strictly with the base of the palm – your fingers should not come into contact with the victim’s sternum.
5. Perform rhythmic chest thrusts strongly, smoothly, strictly vertically, with the weight of the upper half of your body. Frequency – 100-110 pressures per minute. In this case, the chest should sag by 3–4 cm.

For infants, chest compressions are performed with the index and middle fingers of one hand. Teenagers – with the palm of one hand.

If ventilatory support is given concurrently with chest compressions, every two breaths should be alternated with 30 chest compressions.

Harm: chest compressions can break ribs, so broken bones can easily damage the lungs and heart.

Correct: chest compressions are performed only after you have made sure that the victim has no pulse and breathing, and there is no doctor nearby. While one person is doing a heart massage, someone else must call an ambulance. Massage is performed in rhythm – 100 compressions in 1 minute. In the case of children, chest compressions are performed with the fingers in a different rhythm. After the heart starts, start performing artificial respiration. Alternative method: 30 compressions and 2 breaths, then repeat compressions and 2 breaths again.

In the event of an accident, do not remove the victim from the car and do not change his position

Harm: death most often occurs with trauma or fracture of the spine. Even the most insignificant movement, caused by helping the victim to lie down more comfortably, can kill or make a person disabled.

Correct: call an ambulance immediately after an injury if there is concern that the victim may have a head, neck or spine injury. At the same time, monitor the patient’s breathing until the arrival of doctors.

Fractures

Fracture – violation of the integrity of the bone. A fracture is accompanied by severe pain, sometimes fainting or shock, bleeding. There are open and closed fractures. The first is accompanied by a wound of soft tissues, bone fragments are sometimes visible in the wound.

Fracture First Aid Technique

1. Assess the severity of the victim’s condition, determine the location of the fracture.
2. If there is bleeding, stop it.
3. Determine if it is possible to move the victim before the arrival of specialists.

   Do not carry or change position in case of spinal injury!

4. Immobilize the bone in the area of ​​the fracture – immobilize. To do this, it is necessary to immobilize the joints located above and below the fracture.
5. Apply a splint. As a tire, you can use flat sticks, boards, rulers, rods, etc. The tire must be tightly, but not tightly fixed with bandages or plaster.

For a closed fracture, immobilization is done over clothing. With an open fracture, you can not apply a splint to places where the bone protrudes outward.

Stopping bleeding with a tourniquet can lead to limb amputation

Harm: squeezing of the limbs is the result of incorrect or unnecessary application of the tourniquet. Tissue necrosis occurs due to a violation of blood circulation in the limbs, because the tourniquet does not stop the bleeding, but completely blocks the circulation.

Correct: Apply a clean cloth or sterile gauze dressing to the wound and hold it in place. Until the doctors arrive, this will be enough. Only with severe bleeding, when the risk of death is higher than the risk of amputation, is it permissible to use a tourniquet.

Tourniquet application technique

1. Apply a tourniquet to clothing or padding just above the wound.
2. Tighten the tourniquet and check the pulsation of the vessels: the bleeding should stop, and the skin below the tourniquet should turn pale.
3. Bandage the wound.
4. Record the exact time the tourniquet was applied.

A tourniquet may be applied to limbs for a maximum of 1 hour. After its expiration, the tourniquet must be loosened for 10-15 minutes. If necessary, tighten again, but no more than 20 minutes.

In case of a nosebleed, do not tilt your head back or lie down on your back

Harm: The pressure rises sharply when the head is thrown back or lying on the back during a nosebleed. Blood can enter the lungs or cause vomiting.

Correct: Keeping your head straight will speed up the pressure reduction. Apply something cold to your nose. Close the nostrils alternately for 15 minutes each, with your index finger and thumb. Breathe through your mouth during this time. Repeat this technique if the bleeding does not stop. If bleeding continues, seek immediate medical attention.

Use of drugs that cause vomiting

Harm: drugs that induce vomiting, burn the esophagus and contribute to poisoning by vomit if inhaled.

Correct: call an ambulance if you suspect poisoning. Describe the symptoms of poisoning by phone and remember the manipulations and actions that the dispatcher will recommend to you. Do not evaluate the severity of poisoning on your own and do not look for advice on the Internet – intoxication with vitamins or alcohol is very dangerous. A lethal outcome is possible in a short time if you do not seek medical help in time.

Fainting

Fainting is a sudden loss of consciousness due to a temporary interruption of cerebral blood flow. In other words, it is a signal to the brain that it lacks oxygen.

It is important to distinguish between normal and epileptic syncope. The first is usually preceded by nausea and dizziness.

The pre-fainting state is characterized by the fact that a person rolls his eyes, becomes covered with cold sweat, his pulse weakens, his limbs become cold.

Typical syncope situations:

• fright
• excitement
• stuffiness and others

If the person has fainted, put him in a comfortable horizontal position and provide fresh air (unbutton clothes, loosen belt, open windows and doors). Sprinkle cold water on the face of the victim, pat him on the cheeks. If you have a first-aid kit on hand, give a cotton swab moistened with ammonia to sniff.

If consciousness does not return after 3-5 minutes, call an ambulance immediately.

When the victim comes to, give him some strong tea.

Do not put a spoon in the mouth of a person who is having a seizure.

And don’t take out his tongue

Harm: A person in a seizure state may swallow or choke on an object that is inserted into the mouth to protect the tongue.

As correct: Seizures result in blue or violent tremors. By itself, the body cannot harm itself, and the attacks end on their own. It is better to call a doctor, and make sure that the person does not harm himself and can breathe freely. Nothing will happen to the language. A person will not swallow it, and biting the tongue is not dangerous. Lay the patient on his side immediately after the attack.

Burns

A burn is damage to body tissues caused by high temperatures or chemicals. Burns vary in degrees as well as types of damage. According to the last reason, burns are distinguished:

• thermal (flame, hot liquid, steam, incandescent objects)
• chemical (alkalis, acids)
• electrical
• beam (light and ionizing radiation)
• combined

In case of burns, the first step is to eliminate the effect of the damaging factor (fire, electric current, boiling water, and so on).

Then, in case of thermal burns, the affected area should be freed from clothing (gently, without tearing off, but cutting off the adherent tissue around the wound) and, for the purpose of disinfection and pain relief, irrigate it with a water-alcohol solution (1/1) or vodka.

Do not use oily ointments and greasy creams – fats and oils do not reduce pain, do not disinfect the burn, and do not promote healing.

After irrigate the wound with cold water, apply a sterile dressing and apply ice. Also, give the victim warm salted water.

Use dexpanthenol sprays to promote healing of minor burns. If the burn covers an area of ​​more than one palm, be sure to consult a doctor.

Treatment with iodine, rubbing alcohol, and washing wounds with hydrogen peroxide are sometimes dangerous

Harm: connective tissue is destroyed by hydrogen peroxide, thus the wound heals much longer. Alcohol, iodine and brilliant green burn intact cells and provoke a painful shock or burn on contact with the wound.

How to: wash the wound with clean water (boiled if possible), then treat the wound with an antibiotic ointment. Don’t put on a bandage or plaster unnecessarily. A bandaged wound heals much longer.

First aid for drowning

1. Remove victim from water.

   A drowning man grabs everything that comes to hand. Be careful: swim up to him from behind, hold him by the hair or armpits, keeping your face above the surface of the water.

2. Place the casualty on his knee with his head down.
3. Clean mouth of foreign bodies (mucus, vomit, algae).
4. Check for signs of life.
5. In the absence of a pulse and breathing, immediately start mechanical ventilation and chest compressions.
6. After recovery of breathing and cardiac activity, lay the victim on his side, cover him and keep him comfortable until the arrival of medical personnel.

Hypothermia and frostbite

Hypothermia is a drop in human body temperature below the norm necessary to maintain normal metabolism.

Hypothermia First Aid

1. Take the casualty to a warm room or cover with warm clothes.
2. Do not rub the victim, let the body gradually warm up on its own.
3. Give victim warm drink and food.

Do not use alcohol!

Hypothermia is often accompanied by frostbite, that is, damage and necrosis of body tissues under the influence of low temperatures. Frostbite is especially common in the fingers and toes, nose and ears, parts of the body with reduced blood supply.

Causes of frostbite – high humidity, frost, wind, immobility. Aggravates the condition of the victim, as a rule, alcohol intoxication.

Symptoms:

• cold feeling
• tingling in the frostbitten part of the body
• then – numbness and loss of sensation

First aid for frostbite

1. Keep victim warm.
2. Remove any frozen or wet clothing from him.
3. Do not rub the victim with snow or a cloth, as this will only injure the skin.
4. Wrap the frostbitten area of ​​the body.
5. Give victim hot sweet drink or hot food.

Poisoning

Poisoning is a disorder of the body’s vital functions resulting from the ingestion of a poison or toxin. Depending on the type of toxin, poisoning is distinguished:

• carbon monoxide
• pesticides
• alcohol
• drugs
• food and others

First aid measures depend on the nature of the poisoning. The most common food poisoning is accompanied by nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and stomach pain. In this case, the victim is recommended to take 3-5 grams of activated charcoal every 15 minutes for an hour, drink plenty of water, refrain from eating and be sure to consult a doctor.

In addition, accidental or intentional drug poisoning and alcohol intoxication are common.