The exact cause of this condition is not always known. It results from stress on the cartilage where your ribs attach to your sternum. The cause of this stress could be:

• Chest injury.

• Exercise or activity, such as lifting.

• Severe coughing.

You are more likely to develop this condition if you:

• Are female.

• Are 30–40 years old.

• Recently started a new exercise or work activity.

• Have low levels of vitamin D.

• Have a condition that makes you cough frequently.

The main symptom of this condition is chest pain. The pain:

• Usually starts gradually and can be sharp or dull.

• Gets worse with deep breathing, coughing, or exercise.

• Gets better with rest.

• May be worse when you press on the affected area of your ribs and sternum.

This condition is diagnosed based on your symptoms, your medical history, and a physical exam. Your health care provider will check for pain when pressing on your sternum. You may also have tests to rule out other causes of chest pain. These may include:

• A chest X-ray to check for lung problems.

• An ECG (electrocardiogram) to see if you have a heart problem that could be causing the pain.

• An imaging scan to rule out a chest or rib fracture.

This condition usually goes away on its own over time. Your health care provider may prescribe an NSAID, such as ibuprofen, to reduce pain and inflammation. Treatment may also include:

• Resting and avoiding activities that make pain worse.

• Applying heat or ice to the area to reduce pain and inflammation.

• Doing exercises to stretch your chest muscles.

Managing pain, stiffness, and swelling

• If directed, put ice on the painful area. To do this:

  • Put ice in a plastic bag.

  • Place a towel between your skin and the bag.

  • Leave the ice on for 20 minutes, 2–3 times a day.

• If directed, apply heat to the affected area as often as told by your health care provider. Use the heat source that your health care provider recommends, such as a moist heat pack or a heating pad.

  • Place a towel between your skin and the heat source.

  • Leave the heat on for 20–30 minutes.

  • Remove the heat if your skin turns bright red. This is especially important if you are unable to feel pain, heat, or cold. You may have a greater risk of getting burned.

Activity

• Rest as told by your health care provider. Avoid activities that make pain worse. This includes any activities that use chest, abdominal, and side muscles.

• Do not lift anything that is heavier than 10 lb (4.5 kg), or the limit that you are told, until your health care provider says that it is safe.

• Return to your normal activities as told by your health care provider. Ask your health care provider what activities are safe for you.

General instructions

• Take over-the-counter and prescription medicines only as told by your health care provider.

• Keep all follow-up visits as told by your health care provider. This is important.