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Symptoms of chest wall inflammation. Chest Wall Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options Explained

What are the common causes of chest wall pain. How can you distinguish between serious and non-serious chest pain. What treatments are available for managing chest wall discomfort. When should you seek emergency medical care for chest pain.

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Understanding Chest Wall Pain: More Than Just Heart Problems

Chest wall pain is a common complaint that can stem from various causes, ranging from minor muscle strains to more serious conditions. While many people associate chest pain with heart problems, it’s important to understand that a significant portion of chest discomfort originates from the muscles, bones, and soft tissues of the chest wall itself.

Studies suggest that nearly a quarter of the population will experience chest wall pain unrelated to heart issues at some point in their lives. This statistic highlights the importance of proper diagnosis and understanding of the various factors that can contribute to chest discomfort.

Recognizing Chest Wall Pain Symptoms

Chest wall pain can manifest in different ways, including:

  • Tightness or pressure in the chest area
  • Sharp, stabbing pains
  • Dull aches that come and go
  • Pain that worsens with movement or touch
  • Discomfort that varies in duration from hours to days

The nature and intensity of the pain can provide valuable clues about its underlying cause. However, it’s crucial to remember that chest pain symptoms alone are not sufficient for a definitive diagnosis, and professional medical evaluation is essential.

Common Causes of Chest Wall Pain: Beyond Cardiac Issues

While heart-related problems are a serious concern, many cases of chest wall pain stem from other sources. Understanding these potential causes can help individuals better assess their symptoms and seek appropriate care.

Musculoskeletal Injuries: A Frequent Culprit

Injuries to the muscles, bones, or cartilage in the chest area are common causes of chest wall pain. These can result from:

  • Sudden trauma, such as falls or blows to the chest
  • Overuse or repetitive motions
  • Poor posture or sedentary lifestyle
  • Strained muscles from coughing or heavy lifting

Musculoskeletal chest pain often has specific characteristics. Is the pain localized to a particular spot? Does it worsen when you touch or move the affected area? These signs may indicate a muscular or skeletal origin for your discomfort.

Costochondritis: Inflammation of Rib Cartilage

Costochondritis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the cartilage connecting the ribs to the breastbone. This can cause:

  • Intense burning sensations in the chest
  • Dull, persistent aches
  • Sharp pains that worsen with movement

While costochondritis can be quite painful, it’s generally not a serious condition and often resolves on its own. How long does costochondritis typically last? The duration can vary, but most cases improve within a few weeks to months with proper management.

When Chest Pain Signals Serious Conditions

Although many instances of chest wall pain are benign, it’s crucial to recognize when symptoms may indicate a more serious underlying condition requiring immediate medical attention.

Angina: A Warning Sign of Heart Problems

Angina is a type of chest pain that occurs when the heart doesn’t receive enough blood flow. It can be a symptom of underlying heart disease and may present as:

  • A feeling of tightness or pressure in the middle of the chest
  • Shortness of breath
  • Pain that lasts for several minutes
  • Discomfort that doesn’t improve with massage or deep breathing

Who is at higher risk for angina? Risk factors include advanced age, obesity, physical inactivity, unhealthy diet, and diabetes. If you experience symptoms of angina, especially if they’re new or worsening, it’s crucial to seek medical evaluation promptly.

Recognizing a Potential Heart Attack

While not all chest pain indicates a heart attack, it’s vital to be aware of the warning signs that require emergency care:

  • Intense pain in the center of the chest lasting more than a few minutes
  • Pain that radiates to the back, neck, or shoulders
  • Accompanying symptoms like shortness of breath, dizziness, or confusion
  • Loss of consciousness or fainting

If you or someone around you experiences these symptoms, call emergency services immediately. Prompt treatment can be life-saving in the event of a heart attack.

Beyond the Heart: Other Medical Conditions Causing Chest Pain

Several other medical conditions can manifest as chest wall pain, highlighting the importance of a thorough diagnostic approach.

Respiratory Conditions: When Breathing Hurts

Respiratory issues can sometimes cause chest discomfort. Asthma, for instance, can lead to:

  • Chest tightness or pain
  • Breathlessness
  • Dizziness
  • Throat tightness

While asthma is often diagnosed in childhood, can adults develop asthma? Yes, asthma can develop at any age, and adult-onset asthma is not uncommon. If you experience persistent chest tightness or difficulty breathing, especially during physical activity or exposure to certain triggers, consult a healthcare provider for evaluation.

Breast-Related Pain: A Consideration for All Genders

Breast pain can cause discomfort in the chest wall and is not limited to women. Factors contributing to breast pain include:

  • Hormonal changes during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause
  • Infections or inflammation
  • Blocked milk ducts in breastfeeding individuals

How can you differentiate breast pain from other types of chest pain? Breast pain often worsens when the affected area is pressed and may be associated with visible changes in the breast tissue. However, any unexplained breast pain or changes should be evaluated by a healthcare professional to rule out more serious conditions.

Diagnosing Chest Wall Pain: The Importance of Professional Evaluation

Given the wide range of potential causes for chest wall pain, accurate diagnosis is crucial for appropriate treatment and peace of mind.

The Diagnostic Process

When evaluating chest wall pain, healthcare providers typically follow a systematic approach:

  1. Detailed medical history: This includes discussing the nature of the pain, associated symptoms, and risk factors.
  2. Physical examination: The doctor will assess the chest area for tenderness, swelling, or other abnormalities.
  3. Diagnostic tests: Depending on the suspected cause, tests may include:
    • Electrocardiogram (ECG) to assess heart function
    • Chest X-rays or CT scans to visualize the chest structures
    • Blood tests to check for signs of inflammation or heart damage

Why is it challenging to diagnose chest pain based on symptoms alone? The overlap of symptoms between different conditions and the subjective nature of pain make it difficult to pinpoint the exact cause without a comprehensive evaluation. This underscores the importance of seeking professional medical advice for persistent or concerning chest pain.

Treatment Options for Chest Wall Pain: From Home Remedies to Medical Interventions

The appropriate treatment for chest wall pain depends on its underlying cause. Many cases can be managed with conservative measures, while others may require more intensive medical intervention.

Home Remedies and Self-Care Strategies

For mild chest wall pain, especially that originating from musculoskeletal sources, several home treatments may provide relief:

  • Rest and avoidance of aggravating activities
  • Application of hot or cold therapy to the affected area
  • Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen
  • Gentle stretching exercises, as recommended by a healthcare provider

How long should you try home remedies before seeking medical attention? While mild pain may improve with self-care within a few days, persistent pain or pain accompanied by other concerning symptoms warrants prompt medical evaluation.

Medical Treatments for Specific Conditions

For more severe or persistent chest wall pain, medical treatments may include:

  • Prescription anti-inflammatory medications for conditions like costochondritis
  • Inhaled medications or other therapies for asthma-related chest tightness
  • Specific treatments for underlying heart conditions, if present
  • Physical therapy or targeted exercises to address musculoskeletal issues

In cases where chest pain is a symptom of a more serious condition, such as angina or a heart attack, immediate medical intervention and ongoing management under the care of a cardiologist may be necessary.

Preventing Chest Wall Pain: Lifestyle Strategies for Long-Term Health

While not all causes of chest wall pain are preventable, adopting certain lifestyle habits can reduce your risk of developing some types of chest discomfort and promote overall cardiovascular health.

Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle

Key preventive measures include:

  • Regular physical activity to strengthen chest muscles and improve overall fitness
  • Maintaining good posture to reduce strain on chest muscles and joints
  • Practicing stress-reduction techniques like meditation or deep breathing exercises
  • Following a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
  • Avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol consumption

How can improving your overall health impact your risk of chest wall pain? By reducing risk factors for conditions like heart disease and maintaining strong, flexible muscles, you can lower your chances of experiencing certain types of chest discomfort and improve your body’s ability to recover from minor injuries.

Regular Check-ups and Early Intervention

Regular medical check-ups are essential for maintaining chest wall health and catching potential issues early. During these visits, your healthcare provider can:

  • Assess your overall cardiovascular health
  • Screen for risk factors that may contribute to chest pain
  • Provide personalized advice on lifestyle modifications
  • Address any concerns or symptoms you may be experiencing

By staying proactive about your health and addressing potential issues early, you can often prevent minor problems from developing into more serious conditions that cause significant chest wall pain or other complications.

Understanding When to Seek Emergency Care for Chest Pain

While many instances of chest wall pain are not life-threatening, it’s crucial to recognize situations that require immediate medical attention. Knowing when to seek emergency care can be life-saving in critical situations.

Red Flags: When to Call Emergency Services

Seek emergency medical care if you experience:

  • Sudden, severe chest pain that feels like crushing or squeezing
  • Pain that radiates to your jaw, left arm, or back
  • Chest pain accompanied by shortness of breath, sweating, or nausea
  • Loss of consciousness or near-fainting episodes
  • Chest pain following a traumatic injury to the chest

Why is it better to err on the side of caution with chest pain? In cases of heart attacks or other serious conditions, every minute counts. Prompt medical attention can significantly improve outcomes and prevent long-term complications.

The Importance of Trusting Your Instincts

Even if your symptoms don’t exactly match the typical signs of a heart attack or other emergency, it’s important to trust your instincts. If you feel that something is seriously wrong, don’t hesitate to seek medical help. Healthcare professionals are trained to evaluate chest pain and can provide the appropriate care or reassurance based on your specific situation.

Remember, chest wall pain can have many causes, ranging from minor muscular strains to life-threatening cardiac events. By understanding the various factors that can contribute to chest discomfort, recognizing warning signs, and knowing when to seek professional help, you can better manage your health and ensure prompt treatment when needed. Always prioritize your well-being and don’t hesitate to consult with healthcare providers for persistent or concerning chest pain symptoms.

Causes, treatments, and pain management

Chest wall pain may result from an injury to the muscles, joints, or cartilage. In some cases, home treatments such as hot or cold therapy may help.

The cause of chest pain is difficult to diagnose from symptoms alone. For this reason, it is important to contact a doctor for this complaint.

This article will look at some causes and treatments associated with chest wall pain.

Chest wall pain refers to pain inside of the chest. It may affect the muscles, bones, or soft tissue in the chest. In some cases, the pain might involve organs, such as the heart and lungs.

Chest wall pain can cause different sensations, ranging from tightness to sharp, stabbing pains. It may also come and go and vary in duration from hours to days.

In some cases, chest wall pain may only occur with movement or in response to touching the area.

Chest pain can occur with heart disease or a heart attack. However, many instances of chest wall pain are not due to a heart problem. In fact, some estimates suggest that nearly a quarter of the population will experience chest wall pain from something other than a heart problem.

For example, a common cause of chest wall pain is an injury to the muscles, joints, or cartilage.

Chest wall pain warrants emergency care if person experiences:

  • intense pain in the center of the chest that lasts for longer than a few minutes
  • pain that spreads to the back, neck, or shoulders
  • other symptoms, such as shortness of breath, dizziness, or confusion
  • loss of consciousness or fainting

These symptoms could indicate a heart attack and, therefore, require immediate medical care.

A heart attack is not the only reason to seek emergency care. Some other signs that chest wall pain requires emergency care include:

  • chest pain with a fever
  • difficulty breathing
  • intense chest pain following a fall or blow to the chest

Several medical conditions can cause chest wall pain. The sections below will look at some of these in more detail.

Musculoskeletal injuries

Injuries to the muscles or bones of the chest can cause pain in the area. These injuries can be sudden, such as from a fall or blow to the chest, or occur over time, such as from bad posture or a sedentary lifestyle.

Signs that the cause may be an injury include feeling pain in a specific location or having pain that spreads to different areas. Another sign is if the area is painful to touch.

With mild muscle injuries, the pain can be a mild, intermittent ache. In more severe cases, such as from a bone fracture, the pain can be intense and persistent.

Angina

Angina is a type of chest pain that occurs as a symptom of an underlying heart condition. It occurs when there is a disruption of blood flowing to the heart.

Some factors that increase the risk of angina include:

  • being older
  • having excess weight or obesity
  • being physically inactive
  • eating an unhealthy diet
  • having diabetes

Angina causes a feeling of tightness in the middle of the chest and shortness of breath. It lasts for several minutes and does not get better with massages or deep breathing.

Angina can indicate a heart attack, which requires emergency medical care.

Costochondritis

Costochondritis refers to inflammation of the cartilage between the ribs, where they connect to the breastbone. It can cause an intense burning sensation, a dull ache, or sudden chest pain. The pain may worsen with movement.

Costochondritis usually goes away on its own. A doctor can prescribe anti-inflammatory pain medications to reduce the pain. Some people might also benefit from stretches or massages.

Breast pain

Breast pain can cause pain in one or both breasts. Pregnant and lactating people are more likely to experience breast pain. Some people also experience breast pain during menopause or periods.

Several factors can cause breast pain, such as hormonal changes or infections. Blocked ducts and inflamed breasts are specific problems in people who are breastfeeding.

The pain tends to get worse when a person presses on the affected area. It can sometimes resolve on its own, but it may require treatment. Some people find relief from massaging the area or using a warm compress.

Asthma

An asthma attack can cause chest pain or tightness. Some other symptoms include breathlessness, feeling dizzy, and throat tightness.

Asthma is more common in childhood, but it can develop at any age.

A severe asthma attack usually requires medical treatment or an inhaler.

Other chronic conditions

Several other chronic conditions can cause chest pain. The pain may appear suddenly or develop slowly over time. It might come and go and may last for weeks or months.

Some other conditions that may cause chest pain include:

  • arthritis
  • fibromyalgia
  • Tietze syndrome, which is a rare inflammatory disease
  • sickle cell disease
  • liver or gallbladder disease

Treatment depends on the condition a person has, but taking medication to treat the underlying cause usually helps.

Infections

Some infections may also cause chest pain. For example, pneumonia can cause chest pain with a fever and breathing difficulties.

Infections in the bones or muscles may also cause pain. Chest pain following a recent illness could indicate that an infection is the cause.

Infections usually require medical treatment, and the treatment will depend on the cause. For example, a person may need to take antibiotics for a bacterial infection. Resting may help ease the pain, but serious infections may require hospitalization.

Lung injuries

An injury to the lung might include a collapsed or punctured lung. Another potential lung-related cause of chest pain is pulmonary embolism, wherein a blood clot from elsewhere in the body travels to the lungs, causing chest discomfort.

Lung injuries might cause breathing problems. The pain might follow a blow to the chest, such as from a fall or vehicle accident.

Lung injuries can be life threatening, so they require immediate medical treatment.

Mild pain may go away on its own without medical care if there are no other symptoms.

More severe pain, however, usually requires treatment. A person needs medical care if chest pain occurs after a blow to the chest or alongside any other symptoms of a heart attack.

To diagnose the cause, a doctor may:

  • ask about the person’s symptoms and medical history
  • examine their chest
  • take a blood sample
  • administer X-rays or other imaging tests

Home treatments can be helpful if emergency care is not necessary. These include:

  • applying an ice pack to the chest
  • using heat packs
  • massaging the area
  • doing gentle stretches
  • taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen

Many causes of chest wall pain are not a cause for concern.

However, when chest pain does not go away on its own or gets worse, a person needs medical care.

Look out for symptoms of a heart attack or other conditions that require emergency care.

Chest Wall Pain – Pain Doctor

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Chest Wall Painadmin2017-07-26T13:51:52-07:00

What Is Chest Wall Pain?

If you suffer from chest wall pain, it can be a scary experience. This is because some types of chest pain mimic the same symptoms of a heart attack or other heart condition. However, there are some types of musculoskeletal chest pain that aren’t related to a heart condition at all. In this article we’ll talk about the causes of this pain as well as some chest wall pain treatments that could work for you.

Symptoms of chest pain and discomfort are among the most common reasons provided for medical visits around the world. Further, it has been estimated that around 7.16 million visits are made annually to the emergency department due to chest pain. Between 1% and 3% of all visits to a primary care provider are actually attributed to this problem.

The symptoms of chest wall pain can be achy, sharp, or even pressure-like. In many cases, patients will report that their pain worsens upon:

  • Moving their upper body
  • Taking deep breaths
  • Engaging in physical exertion

The most common form of this type of pain is costochondral pain, which is an inflammation of the cartilage connecting a rib to the breastbone.

What Is Costochondritis Pain?

Interestingly, nearly 30% of patients with complaints of chest pain are ultimately diagnosed with costochondritis. Pain that occurs within the costosternal and costochondral regions of the anterior chest wall, in particular, is referred to as costochondritis. Costochondritis is also sometimes called:

  • Costochondral pain
  • Costosternal syndrome
  • Costosternal chondrodynia

Patients of advancing age (i.e., 40 years of age and up) and who are of Hispanic origin are considered to be at an increased risk for pain associated with costochondritis.

The symptoms of costochondritis tend to be localized to the costal cartilage along the second through the fifth costochondral joints, particularly within the third and fourth ribs. Nonetheless, symptoms of chest wall pain may occur along any of the seven costochondral junctions. Moreover, these symptoms may also radiate out from the anterior chest wall to the neck or arm. It is not uncommon for patients to also report tenderness within the area.

What Is The Cause Of Chest Wall Pain?

While reports of this type of pain tend to be incredibly common, the underlying cause for the condition is not completely understood.

While it is not uncommon for the precise source of chest wall pain to remain unknown, some possible causes of costochondritis include:

  • Injury or trauma: Pain within the area of the chest wall may emerge as the result of a direct blow or injury to the area.
  • Arthritis: Some evidence suggests that symptoms of costochondritis are associated with degenerative joint conditions, such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Physical strain: Symptoms of costochondritis have been linked with periods of heavy lifting, extreme physical exertion, or even severe coughing, which likely places excessive strain to the underlying soft tissue of the chest.
  • Infection: The various joints of the rib cage can become infected from fungi, bacteria, or a virus (e.g., syphilis or tuberculosis). These infections can cause irritation and inflammation of the area, which can lead to symptoms of pain and discomfort.
  • Tumor: Symptoms of pain can emerge as the result of tumor. In fact, cancerous tumors may spread to the joints of the rib cage from other nearby areas of the body, such as the lung, thyroid, or breast.

Typically, pain associated with costochondritis emerges as the result of irritation and inflammation of the soft tissue that joins the ribs and the breastbone. Further, previous studies have indicated that this type of pain tends to occur more frequently among populations of women.

Diagnosing Chest Wall Pain

Your pain doctor may be able to diagnose costochondritis following a thorough physical examination; however, advanced imaging techniques should be employed to rule out any other potential sources for your symptoms.

Physical examination of chest wall pain will generally include gentle palpation of the:

  • Posterior, anterior, and lateral thoracic regions
  • The thoracic and lumbar spine
  • Cervical spine
  • Shoulders
  • Clavicle

Any areas of tenderness are noted and better localized by palpation with a single digit. Your pain doctor will examine the movement of your rib cage through the use of deep breathing exercises. Movement of the upper extremities is generally assessed by moving the arm, while they also observe for pain, stiffness, and limits to range of motion.

How Long Does Chest Wall Pain Last?

In most cases, symptoms of pain and discomfort within the chest wall that are associated with costochondritis resolve on their own. The actual course of the condition depends on a number of factors that can vary widely from patient to patient. A portion of patients will report that their pain and discomfort resolved within several weeks, while others may experience more persistent symptoms.

Nearly all cases of costochondritis are expected to resolve within one year. Acute cases may linger for a few days, but they may last up to several weeks. If your pain is due to a minor injury or trauma, the pain should resolve using at-home treatments discussed below. If you’ve suffered from chest wall pain for more than three months, it is considered a chronic form of pain. In this case, it’s important to talk to your doctor about ways to find relief. Chronic conditions generally fare worse the longer treatment is delayed.

You should talk to your doctor immediately, though, if you experience any of the following symptoms:

  • Breathing issues
  • Fever
  • Pain that is still severe or worsening after a few days
  • Nausea
  • Signs of infection, such as sweating, redness, or increased swelling

Signs of a heart attack that requires immediate medical attention include:

  • Persistent chest pain
  • Left arm pain
  • Generalized chest pain that doesn’t have a localized source of pain
  • Nausea
  • Sweating

Women, however, typically experience heart attack symptoms differently. For example, women are more likely to experience secondary symptoms like back or jaw pain or nausea. Call 911 if you suffer from:

  • Uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, or fullness in the center of your chest
  • Pain or discomfort in one or both arms, your back, neck, jaw, or stomach
  • Shortness of breath
  • Sweat, nausea, or lightheadedness

Treatments For Chest Wall Pain

Unfortunately, there is very little research available on the effectiveness of potential treatments for chest wall pain. However, there are some at-home treatments you can use to reduce pain from an acute injury or trauma. For more severe cases of pain that aren’t related to heart attack, there are interventional treatments you can try.

At-home chest wall pain treatments

This type of pain generally resolves on its own. However, some at-home chest wall pain treatments can include:

  • Taking over-the-counter oral analgesics
  • Reducing some types of physical activity
  • Using cough suppressants
  • Applying a hot compress or heating pad
  • Undergoing physical therapy

In most instances, over-the-counter oral analgesics are recommended as a first-line treatment. These medications may include acetaminophen or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Your physician may also recommend that you limit physical activities that tend to make the symptoms worse. For instance, you may be encouraged to reduce exercise intensity or temporarily decrease the degree of physical exertion you engage in at work. Further, using cough suppressants in order to reduce the severity of your cough may provide some relief from symptoms of chest wall pain.

Many patients may have success applying a hot compress or using a heating pad. This technique is particularly effective in instances of costochondritis that are the result of muscle overuse and strain.

Your doctor may also recommend a course of physical therapy. This particular treatment can be very beneficial for cases of musculoskeletal chest pain. They can also recommend at-home stretches for chest wall pain that you can do.

Interventional treatments

If you’re experiencing more persistent symptoms of pain and discomfort, you may wish to consider more aggressive forms of pain management. You should only attempt these more advanced treatments after other at-home treatments have failed. But, if this type of pain begins to severely impact your daily life, you should talk to your doctor about your options.

Chest wall pain treatments may include:

  • Chest wall injections
  • Antibiotics
  • Chiropractic treatment
  • Treatments focused on underlying conditions, such as arthritis, injury, or cancer

For cases of severe and chronic refractory pain, injections of analgesic medication may be effective in providing relief from your pain. This technique allows for a more targeted approach, such that the analgesic medication (generally lidocaine or corticosteroid) is delivered by injection directly into the affected area. The goal of these chest wall injections is to interfere with the transmission of pain signals from the peripheral nervous system to the spinal cord and brain. This technique is effective for managing more severe symptoms of chest wall pain, though it is very rarely necessary.

If you’re suffering from costochondritis that’s caused by an infection, your doctor will start you on a course of antibiotics.

If your pain is caused by a slight dislocation in the ribs, a pain specialist may recommend chiropractic care. In this case, a chiropractor will help manipulate the dislocation to move it back to its original position.

Finally, if arthritis or another pain condition is causing your pain, your pain doctor will work to find treatments that resolve those underlying conditions. In these cases, it can reduce or effectively relieve your symptoms.

Conclusion

Chest wall pain, which is also known as costochondritis, is a common condition. It is characterized by achy, sharp, or even pressure-like pain within the chest region. These symptoms may radiate out toward the shoulders and arms.

In most cases, the precise source of the pain is not known. But, in general, this type of pain is believed to be the result of irritation and inflammation of the underlying soft tissue of the chest. Symptoms of chest wall pain generally resolve on their own, though several treatment options are available for pain management. These can include physical therapy, injections, or chiropractic care.

If you’re suffering from chronic chest wall pain that’s lasted for three months or more, or pain that severely impacts your life, you need to talk to a pain specialist. They can help diagnose the cause of your pain and discuss treatment options that would work best for you. You can find a certified pain specialist in your area by clicking the button below.

Find Your Pain Doctor

References

  1. Ayloo A, Cvengros T, Marella S. Evaluation and treatment of musculoskeletal chest pain. Prim Care 2013;40:863-87.
  2. McConaghy JR, Oza RS. Outpatient diagnosis of acute chest pain in adults. Am Fam Physician 2013;87:177-82.
  3. Brown AF, Cullen L, Than M. Future developments in chest pain diagnosis and management. Med Clin North Am 2010;94:375-400.
  4. Gokhale J, Selbst SM. Chest pain and chest wall deformity. Pediatr Clin North Am 2009;56:49-65.
  5. Buntinx F, Knockaert D, Bruyninckx R, et al. Chest pain in general practice or in the hospital emergency department: is it the same? Fam Pract. 2001;18:586-589.
  6. How J, Volz G, Doe S, Heycock C, Hamilton J, Kelly C. The causes of musculoskeletal chest pain in patients admitted to hospital with suspected myocardial infarction. Eur J Intern Med. 2005;16:432-436.
  7. Fam AG, Smythe HA. Musculoskeletal chest wall pain. Canadian Medical Association Journal. 1985;133(5):379-389. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1346531/.
  8. Miller CD, Lindsell CJ, Khandelwal S, et al. Is the initial diagnostic impression of “noncardiac chest pain” adequate to exclude cardiac disease? Ann Emerg Med. 2004;44:565-574.
  9. Cayley WE Jr. Diagnosing the cause of chest pain. Am Fam Physician. 2005;72:2012-2021.

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Intercostal neuralgia, treatment in Kyiv, symptoms, chest pain

Intercostal neuralgia is a pain syndrome that develops as a result of inflammation or compression of the intercostal nerves. Its main symptom is pain in the chest area.

Causes of intercostal neuralgia

  • spinal osteochondrosis
  • protrusions and herniated discs
  • spondylosis, spondylarthrosis
  • hypothermia
  • injuries of the spine and chest
  • infectious diseases, intoxication

The main cause of this disease is compression of the nerve roots at the point of their exit from the intervertebral foramina. This area is the most vulnerable place for compression and inflammation of the nerves.

Symptoms of the disease

Intercostal neuralgia is characterized by pain in the right or left side of the chest, which spreads along the intercostal spaces.

Pain can be localized on the back, side of the chest or reach the front surface, in the sternum.

The pain is often aggravated by movement, stooping, coughing, deep inspiration.

On palpation, pain is determined along the intercostal spaces, along the spine, pain points can be determined in the sternum.

    When diagnosing intercostal neuralgia , it is necessary to exclude other diseases that are accompanied by chest pain:

  • diseases of the heart, lungs, internal organs
  • herpes zoster
  • Bechterew’s disease

Treatment of intercostal neuralgia

    Treatment of the disease should include the following tasks :

  1. detection and elimination of the cause of the disease
  2. elimination of pain syndrome, inflammation
  3. restoration of nerve conduction of intercostal nerves
  4. restoration of normal function and performance

Given that the main cause of intercostal neuralgia is diseases of the spine, its treatment should begin with the elimination of back problems.

For the treatment of the back, , our center uses the most effective measures , which allow you to quickly get rid of back problems and eliminate the symptoms of compression of the intercostal nerves.

  • Shock wave therapy . The use of special shock waves allows you to break up salt deposits that are deposited on the vertebrae, causing compression of the roots of the spinal nerves. Also, shock waves break trigger points that cause severe muscle pain.
  • Computer traction of the spine eliminates compression of the nerve roots by increasing the lumen of the intervertebral foramen.
  • Kinesitherapy – treatment of diseases of the spine with the help of special decompression exercises. These exercises allow not only to increase the distance between the vertebrae and eliminate nerve compression, but also to restore the normal function and mobility of the spine.
  • Therapeutic massage back, unlike conventional massage, relieves spasm and tension of the deep muscles of the back, which often cause compression of the nerve roots.
  • Manual therapy is used to eliminate functional blocks, subluxations in the joints of the spine, which can cause intercostal neuralgia.
  • Medications that quickly relieve symptoms of inflammation and pain.

    To eliminate the pain syndrome, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, decongestant drugs are used.

    In acute pain syndrome, drug blockade may be used. In this case, the drug is injected directly near the pathological focus of the clamped and inflamed nerve, thus relieving acute pain and inflammation.

Depending on the cause that caused the compression of the intercostal roots, the necessary method of therapeutic effect is applied, which allows you to eliminate the symptoms of the disease and the causes that caused the development of intercostal neuralgia as soon as possible.

symptoms, causes, diagnosis and treatment

Moscow, st. Partizanskaya, 41

Kuntsevsky
medical and rehabilitation center.

Intense pain and burning in the chest or side is not only a possible symptom of a heart attack, but also of intercostal neuralgia. This is a pain syndrome that occurs due to damage to the nerve roots for various reasons. The Kuntsevsky Medical and Rehabilitation Center is ready to help with such a diagnosis.

Intercostal neuralgia

This is a pain syndrome caused by damage to the peripheral nerves of the chest. Appears due to inflammation, irritation or pinching of the nerve roots in the intercostal space. Intercostal neuralgia is not a disease – it is a syndrome that can appear against the background of various pathologies. Vertebrogenic thoracalgia (the so-called intercostal neuralgia) is a general term for pain that occurs in the chest area. They can appear for no particular reason, or they can be a sign of various diseases.

Symptoms may resemble the pain of a heart attack, pneumonia or pleurisy, diseases such as pancreatitis and others. A characteristic feature is an increase in pain during coughing, laughter, movements, body tilts and a decrease at rest and with muscle relaxation. This is a distinctive feature of intercostal neuralgia, which allows it to be differentiated from symptoms of heart disease or other pathologies. But do not risk and try to diagnose yourself. The price of a mistake can be higher than a protracted pain syndrome.

The principles of treatment and symptoms of intercostal neuralgia in men and women are similar. The main manifestation is pain:

  • Paroxysmal, occurring on its own.
  • Monotonous, aching.
  • Aggravated by movement, deep entry and exhalation, laughter, coughing.
  • Arising from pressure on individual points on the front of the chest or in the side.
  • Burning where the nerve is affected.
  • Numbness, feeling of “goosebumps”.

Pathology is more common on the left side of the body, and in women, intercostal neuralgia is a fairly common companion of pregnancy. During this period, the growing fetus compresses the organs in the abdominal cavity, which can lead to pinched nerves.

Causes

Intercostal neuralgia can be caused by various causes. Basic:

  • Posture disorders, injuries, intervertebral hernia, osteochondrosis.
  • Hypothermia, which led to circulatory disorders.
  • Infectious and other diseases that cause damage to the nerves. For example, destruction of the nerve sheath in multiple sclerosis.
  • Neoplasms that compress the nerve roots.
  • Muscle spasms, their prolonged tension with sudden movements or long uncomfortable postures of the body.
  • Operations.
  • Pathology of internal organs.

Diagnosis

Intercostal neuralgia can be a symptom of many diseases – from cardiovascular pathologies to diseases of the internal organs of the abdominal cavity and chest. It is impossible to independently determine the cause only on the basis of existing complaints. It is necessary to consult a neurologist and comprehensive diagnostics, which will make sure that there are no diseases of the heart, lungs, organs of the digestive system.

Particular attention in the diagnosis and treatment of intercostal neuralgia on the left side. Sharp pain in the heart can be a sign of a heart attack. Symptoms are usually different – so with heart problems, cold sweat appears and shortness of breath bothers you, the pain does not decrease at rest when the muscles relax. But making a diagnosis based on symptoms alone is wrong. The doctor is responsible for the life and health of the patient, which means that you need confidence in the diagnosis and the correctness of treatment.

The procedure for examining a patient with suspected intercostal neuralgia is as follows:

  • Interrogation of the patient about complaints and features of their appearance.
  • Examination looking for the location of pain.
  • Setting a preliminary diagnosis.
  • Conducting examinations to confirm intercostal neuralgia, its causes and prescribe the treatment that is required in a particular case.

The following diagnostic methods can be used:

  • Magnetic resonance imaging or computed tomography – an examination that will give detailed and high-precision images of tissues and pathology in them.
  • ECG – monitoring of the work of the heart to rule out cardiovascular diseases.
  • Ultrasound of the heart or other visceral organs where diseases may have similar symptoms.
  • X-ray of the lungs to exclude pneumonia, pleurisy and other diseases in which there are complaints of chest pain.

Diagnostic methods are selected individually depending on the nature of the pain and its location, the patient’s condition. In some cases, other specialists are involved in the diagnosis and treatment – a cardiologist, a gastroenterologist, a pulmonologist.

Treatment

Treatment objectives for intercostal neuralgia: reduce pain, eliminate the cause of the resulting pinching or inflammation.

To do this, medication is prescribed with:

  • Muscle relaxants to relieve muscle spasms.
  • Neuroprotectors to protect and restore nerve cells.
  • Painkillers and injectable therapeutic blockade with various drugs. It has a strong analgesic effect, relieves swelling and eliminates muscle spasms.

Medical treatment of intercostal neuralgia is supplemented by physiotherapy. The following physiotherapeutic procedures can be used:

  • Exercise therapy – an individually selected set of exercises to relax spasmodic muscles, improve blood circulation and lymph flow in the problem area. Exercise therapy is effective for the treatment and prevention of neuralgia, but you can do it only if there are no contraindications. It is important not to harm, which is possible with homework. What exercises will be effective, how exactly to do them, the number of repetitions – all this will be prompted by the exercise therapy doctor. The safest and most effective classes under the supervision of an exercise therapy instructor in individual or group classes.
  • Laser Therapy – The use of light energy to increase blood circulation, relax muscles, reduce pain and inflammation.
  • Magnetotherapy – the action of the electromagnetic field on the body leads to the elimination of congestion, improved blood circulation, and reduction of pain syndromes.
  • Diadynamic therapy, galvanization, exposure to interference currents and other procedures with electric current of different power and frequency. They have a healing effect on soft tissues, improving blood circulation and lymph outflow, relaxing muscles and providing an analgesic effect.
  • Electrophoresis is a procedure that improves the penetration of drugs into soft tissues and accelerates their action.
  • Therapeutic massage and manual therapy – methods of influencing the body with the hands of a doctor. They allow not only to reduce or completely relieve pain, but also to treat the causes of intercostal neuralgia – pathologies of the spine, functional blocks in its work. What exactly to apply – acupressure, segmental or other types of massage – is decided by a chiropractor or masseur.
  • Acupuncture (acupuncture) – injections with thin needles into biologically active points on the body for pain relief and normalization of the internal organs.

Treatment of intercostal neuralgia on the right or left side of the chest, in the side with the help of physiotherapy procedures is carried out in several procedures. A full course usually consists of 10-15 sessions. Appointments are always individual.

Prevention

The following tips can help prevent intercostal neuralgia:

  • Moderate physical activity to strengthen the muscle frame and maintain their elasticity.
  • Maintaining correct posture.
  • Healthy eating.