Costochondritis is a condition often unfamiliar to many. In fact, it can even leave doctors struggling to determine why pain is happening in the first place. However, it’s not uncommon for chest pain symptoms to be caused by costochondritis. At the same time, if you’re experiencing unexplained and severe chest pain, it’s worth a trip to the emergency to ensure it’s not a life-threatening situation.
Yet, if this pain is caused by costochondritis (as determined by your doctor), chiropractic care can offer a gentle and effective approach to managing this condition. So, in this article, we’ll discuss the signs of costochondritis and how a chiropractor can help alleviate your discomfort. What should you know?
Recognizing the Signs of Costochondritis
Costochondritis is the inflammation of the cartilage that connects your ribs to your breastbone (sternum). This inflammation can cause pain and tenderness, which can be mistaken for other conditions like heart disease. Yet, the costochondritis symptoms can be slightly different from heart problems. So, with that in mind, here are the key signs to watch for:
1. Sharp, Aching Chest Pain
The most common symptom of costochondritis is a sharp, aching pain in the chest, often on the left side. This pain can be exacerbated by certain activities or movements.
2. Pain That Worsens with Movement or Breathing
Activities that involve moving the upper body, deep breathing, coughing, or sneezing can increase the pain. Yet, pain that worsens may also be caused by other conditions.
3. Tenderness When Pressing on the Rib Joints
The area where the ribs meet the breastbone may be tender to the touch. This is usually the tell-tale sign that this pain is musculoskeletal-related, as opposed to heart or lung-related.
4. Localized Pain
Unlike heart-related pain, the discomfort is usually confined to a specific area and does not radiate to other parts of the body. In contrast, heart attacks may radiate pain through the neck, shoulders, arms, and more.
5. No Signs of Infection
Costochondritis doesn’t typically involve signs of infection like fever, swelling, or redness. This is important to note since if you’re experiencing any of these, getting checked out is crucial to ensure a full recovery and optimal health.
How Chiropractic Care Can Help
Chiropractic care offers a non-invasive, drug-free approach to managing costochondritis. Your local Parker chiropractor can help in various ways, including:
- Spinal and Rib Adjustments: Misalignments in the spine or ribs can exacerbate costochondritis pain. Chiropractic adjustments can realign these structures, reducing pressure and pain.
- Soft Tissue Therapy: Techniques like massage or myofascial release can relieve muscle tension around the chest, improving mobility and decreasing discomfort.
- Posture Correction: Improper posture can contribute to the strain on the ribcage. Chiropractors can guide you on proper posture to alleviate stress on the affected area.
- Breathing Exercises: Proper breathing techniques can help minimize the stress on the ribcage and reduce pain.
- Lifestyle and Ergonomic Advice: Chiropractors can provide tips on lifestyle and ergonomic changes to prevent exacerbation of costochondritis symptoms.
- Holistic Approach to Pain Management: Chiropractic care focuses on holistic healing, addressing the root cause of pain rather than just the symptoms.
Suspect Costochondritis? Book Your Appointment Today!
A chiropractor can provide a comprehensive assessment and tailored treatment plan to alleviate your discomfort and improve your quality of life. Remember, each individual’s experience with costochondritis is unique, yet chiropractic care offers a personalized approach to managing your symptoms. And our team at Awaken Chiropractic is here to help. Take a step towards relief and book your appointment with us today!
