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American Rib Pain Institute
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So you have been diagnosed with costochondritis…
Mar 13, 2018
I have what? How did I get this?
Costochondritis is rib pain caused by inflammation in the joints formed by the cartilage bar that connects the front part of your first 7 ribs with your chest bone (the sternum).
If you remember a fall or if you can recall a direct blow to your rib cage, you know what has caused your pain. However, for a significant number of people the rib pain seems to be coming out of nowhere. “I was fine yesterday, but today I am hurting!”
Most people with chest pain go through a thorough exam by their primary doctor, heart doctor (cardiologist), lung doctor (pulmonologist) or GI doctor (internist). When all the tests come back negative (“everything looks fine”) some patients hear the word ‘costochondritis’ for the first time.
But don’t be surprised if you don’t. Many people never get properly diagnosed. Many medical professionals receive inadequate training in the treatment and diagnosis of costochondritis.
Check out my other blog posts. They have answers to the most commonly asked questions about costochondritis.
I have pain in the front of my chest. It just started. And it hurts pretty badly. Question: what do I do? Answer: if you have any suspicions that you may a heart attack: stop reading this blog and call 911 immediately. Be safe and be smart. Get checked out right away. Do not delay! We’ll worry about a possible rib pain diagnosis after you have been cleared of any serious heart conditions. It is important to remember that costochondritis is a diagnosis of exclusion. A heart attack or any other significant heart condition has to be ruled out by a qualified medical professional, before the diagnosis of costochondritis can be made. Check out our other ARPI blog posts. They have answers to the most commonly asked questions about costochondritis.
If these suggestions have not worked for you, you may want to check out my book: ‘Costochondritis: the forgotten Diagnosis’. I believe it should answer most of the questions you may sti