Of all the many causes of chest pain, costochondritis is probably the most frustrating. It can happen very suddenly and last for days to months. Not to mention it can be very scary as sudden chest pain is a warning sign for so many major emergencies such as a heart attack. Fortunately, it isn't life threatening and is self-limiting, often resolving with time and with simple pain management strategies. If you are experiencing chest pain it is important to first consult with a medical practitioner to rule out medical causes first before seeing your osteopath. If you are experiencing serious symptoms such as worsening chest pain, radiating pain into the arms or jaw, shortness of breath, dizziness, exertional chest pain, fever seek medical attention immediately and call triple zero.
Costochondritis is a painful condition in which the costochondral junctions of ribs or chondrosternal joints of the anterior chest wall become chronically inflamed. Pain can be described as either sharp or dull and can either be gradual or rapid in progression. Often costochondritis occurs after recent illness with coughing or after intense exercise but can also occur and resolve spontaneously.
Diagnosis is usually a process of elimination. Firstly, issues with the lungs, heart or bone fractures must be ruled out. You may be sent for diagnostic imaging or medical tests to screen for these. Once medical causes of pain are ruled out your osteopath will conduct a physical assessment of the area. Often patients will report pain or discomfort with deep breathing or slouching, as well as tenderness and pain when touching the ribs and sternum.
Osteopathic management of costochondritis will involve a combination of hands on manual techniques such as massage, stretching and mobilization or manipulation to the joints and muscles of the front and back of the ribs, spine and chest. Postural corrective exercises, stretching and strengthening of the muscles of the chest and spine may be prescribed as well as home or work management strategies to address possible aggravating factors such as ergonomic desk asssessment.
The bottom line is, costochondritis is no fun, but with a quick assessment and management plan it can get better and remember it is not life threatening so don't worry!