thanks for ur query Costochondritis is a painful condition of the chest wall. It is caused by inflammation in the joints between the cartilages that join the ribs to the sternum (breastbone). Although painful, it is not a serious condition. Usually it has no obvious cause and settles over time. Painkillers and anti-inflammatory medicat ions treatments for costochondritis are analgesics (painkillers) and anti-inflammatory medications. Often, only simple analgesics such as paracetamol or codeine are needed. Ibuprofen is an anti-inflammatory medication (also called a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)) that is often effective for costochondritis. Other NSAIDs are available on prescription. NSAIDs should not be taken on an empty stomachion can be used for relief of symptoms. For severe cases of costochondritis, not responding to painkillers and anti-inflammatory medication, injections of steroids or local anaesthetic medicines may be used. In extreme cases, an intercostal nerve block can be performed (usually by an doctor specialising in acute pain and/or anaesthetics). This involves injection of a local anaesthetic drug around the painful ribs, to block the nearby intercostal nerve. The intercostal nerves transmit the painful sensation in costochondritis. This sort of injection temporarily disrupts nerve impulses to stop the pain. Nerve blocks can last several weeks or months. In recurrent, severe cases of costochondritis, a series of these injections can be given to permanently destroy the nerve causing the pain. Non-drug measures can be tried for relief of pain in costochondritis. Examples of such techniques include--- heat pads, ice application, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), acupuncture, gentle stretching exercises and avoidance of sports or activities that worsen the pain.