Your chest bone may hurt when you move due to a condition called costochondritis, which involves inflammation where your ribs connect to your breastbone (sternum).
Understanding Costochondritis
Costochondritis is a common cause of chest pain. Here's a breakdown:
- What it is: Inflammation of the cartilage connecting your ribs to your sternum (breastbone).
- Symptoms: Sharp, aching pain in the chest, often worsened by movement or deep breathing. The pain is generally localized to the front of your chest wall.
- Cause: Often unknown, but can be related to:
- Minor trauma to the chest
- Repetitive strain
- Respiratory infections (coughing)
- Arthritis
- Treatment: Costochondritis usually resolves on its own with time. Pain management can include:
- Over-the-counter pain relievers (ibuprofen, naproxen, acetaminophen).
- Rest and avoidance of activities that worsen the pain.
- In some cases, a doctor may prescribe stronger pain medication or physical therapy.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Definition | Inflammation of cartilage connecting ribs to breastbone |
| Symptoms | Sharp chest pain, worsened by movement/breathing |
| Cause | Often unknown; may involve trauma, strain, or infection |
| Treatment | Pain relief, rest; usually resolves on its own over time |
In summary: If your chest pain is sharp and intensifies with movement, costochondritis is a likely culprit. The reference indicates that "Costochondritis is inflammation where your ribs join the bone in the middle of your chest (breastbone). It can cause sharp chest pain, especially when moving or breathing. It usually gets better on its own over time." While usually harmless, it's always best to consult a doctor to rule out other potential causes of chest pain, especially if the pain is severe or accompanied by other symptoms like shortness of breath.
