Costochondritis may not be a term you hear every day. But if you’re experiencing sharp, aching pain in your chest, you may have come across it in your Google quieres.
At Keystone Chiropractic, we often encounter patients who are dealing with this condition, unsure of what it is and how to manage it. So, how can chiropractic care help? What should you know about this condition?
What is Costochondritis?
Costochondritis is an inflammation of the cartilage that connects your ribs to your breastbone (sternum). This connection point is called the costosternal junction. When it becomes inflamed, it can cause significant pain and discomfort. Interestingly, this condition is often mistaken for a heart attack or heart issues due to the location of the pain, which is why proper diagnosis is crucial.
Costochondritis Symptoms
The primary symptom of costochondritis is sharp, aching pain in the chest, often on the left side. It can be exacerbated by certain movements or deep breathing. Unlike heart-related pain, costochondritis pain is typically reproducible, meaning you can trigger the discomfort by pressing on the area where the rib joins the breastbone.
Costochondritis Causes
The exact cause of costochondritis often remains unknown. However, it can be associated with repetitive trauma or unusual physical activity, which might strain the chest area.
Sometimes, respiratory infections can lead to inflammation in the costosternal junction. Risk factors include age (it’s more common in people over 40), heavy lifting, strenuous exercise, and certain arthritic conditions.
Can Chiropractic Care Help?
As chiropractors, we focus on diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal disorders and helping obtain optimal spinal health. When it comes to costochondritis, chiropractic care can help in a few ways, including the following.
Accurate Diagnosis
Your chiropractor will perform a thorough examination, including a detailed medical history and physical examination. We may use diagnostic imaging to rule out other causes of chest pain and confirm costochondritis.
Treatment Approach
Chiropractic treatment for costochondritis can include various techniques, such as:
- Spinal Adjustments: Misalignments in the spine, particularly the upper back, can exacerbate costochondritis. Adjusting these areas can reduce stress on the chest and improve overall function.
- Soft Tissue Therapy: Techniques, like massage or myofascial release, can help alleviate the tension in the chest muscles, reducing the pressure on the costosternal junction.
Should You Choose Chiropractic Care?
Chiropractic care has the advantage of being a non-invasive alternative to medications or surgery. We further tailor our approach to each individual’s needs and health goals. Lastly, we focus on holistic health, addressing lifestyle factors that may contribute to your condition.
While costochondritis can be a frustrating and painful condition, it’s not something you have to live with. Chiropractic care provides a safe, effective, and non-invasive way to manage and alleviate the symptoms of costochondritis. If you suspect you might be struggling with costochondritis (or your doctor has said so!), book an appointment with us today. Your Plano chiropractor is here to help.
