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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Stinging Pain In Rib Cage, Exacerbated By Movement And Breathing. What Could Be This?

My mother in law is 52 years old and started experiencing pain 2 days ago after sleeping on her rib cage in a strange manner. She describes the pain as a stinging pain in the rib cage in the front and back right side. It is exascerbated by movement and breathing. What could this be. The pain comes and goes but when it's there it's almost unbearable.
Wed, 21 Aug 2013
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Orthopaedic Surgeon, Joint Replacement 's  Response
Hi, thanks for writing to HCM.

Based on the description of symptoms, I suspect that it could be Intercostal myalgia.

Apply ice packing over the affected area once in 2 hours, topical application of a painkiller gel is recommended. Bodily movements that causes pain should be restricted.

An xray of the chest is also mandatory to rule out any lung related pathology.

Hope this information is helpful. Good day
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Orthopaedic Surgeon, Joint Replacement Dr. Saurabh Gupta's  Response
Hello,
Thanks for writing to us

The fact that your pain is occuring with movements indicates a muscle strain. Any strained muscle when stretched gives severe pain.

To get relief from the pain and for quick healing:
1. Do hot fomatation at the site.
2. Apply local anti-inflammatory gel 2-3 times a day.
3. Take anti-inflammatory drugs like Ibuprofen to reduce pain and local swelling or inflammation.
4. Do not lift weight or try to do exercise that involve painful muscles.

I do hope that you have found something helpful and I will be glad to answer any further query.
I find this answer helpful

Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.
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Stinging Pain In Rib Cage, Exacerbated By Movement And Breathing. What Could Be This?

Hi, thanks for writing to HCM. Based on the description of symptoms, I suspect that it could be Intercostal myalgia. Apply ice packing over the affected area once in 2 hours, topical application of a painkiller gel is recommended. Bodily movements that causes pain should be restricted. An xray of the chest is also mandatory to rule out any lung related pathology. Hope this information is helpful. Good day