Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
Suggest Treatment For Xiphoid Process Pain In The Chest
Question: I am a 65-year-old male who weights about 185 over 6 feet. i have had a prtrouding xiphoid process on my barrel chest since a child. Today, I fell flat on my chest when bending over and my protruding xiphoid process is no longer protruding. It is painful to the touch and when I bend over. i suspect i cracked or broke it. How dangerous is this? Or, will it heal itself if I watch what I do -- cut down on running, yoga, etc.?
Brief Answer:
Probably pulled Costo sternal muscle
Detailed Answer:
Hi and welcome.
It sounds to me like a pulled intercostal muscle or costochondritis of Costo sternal joint.
I doubt that there is fracture since the xiphoid process is rarely fractured unless there was any significant trauma.
It would be good to avoid exercise till the pain subsides. Take nonsteroid painkillers like Paracetamol and rest and it should heal itself. it is important to breathe normally, and avoid shallow breathing since it may increase the risk of pneumonia.
However, if pain increases during rest, cough or fever occur, then you should do chest X-ray's to rule out some other pathologies.
Wish you good health.
Regards
Probably pulled Costo sternal muscle
Detailed Answer:
Hi and welcome.
It sounds to me like a pulled intercostal muscle or costochondritis of Costo sternal joint.
I doubt that there is fracture since the xiphoid process is rarely fractured unless there was any significant trauma.
It would be good to avoid exercise till the pain subsides. Take nonsteroid painkillers like Paracetamol and rest and it should heal itself. it is important to breathe normally, and avoid shallow breathing since it may increase the risk of pneumonia.
However, if pain increases during rest, cough or fever occur, then you should do chest X-ray's to rule out some other pathologies.
Wish you good health.
Regards
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Arnab Banerjee
Thanks, doc. Appreciate, as have just moved and living in rural area without having IDed a doctor yet.
Any guess on the time that it would take to heal - again, cutting out major exercise and strenuous activity? And, if I feel this is worsening, I shall find a doc.
Best,
XXXXXXX
Any guess on the time that it would take to heal - again, cutting out major exercise and strenuous activity? And, if I feel this is worsening, I shall find a doc.
Best,
XXXXXXX
Brief Answer:
1-2 weeks
Detailed Answer:
If this is what I think then it should heal within 2 weeks.so try to rest and take painkillers for that time. you can always see doctor and do tests if it worsens.
1-2 weeks
Detailed Answer:
If this is what I think then it should heal within 2 weeks.so try to rest and take painkillers for that time. you can always see doctor and do tests if it worsens.
Note: For further inquiries on surgery procedure and its risks or complications book an appointment now
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Prasad
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
