What is the medical definition of costochondritis?

Costochondritis is a condition that affects the cartilage that connects the ribs to the breastbone (sternum). It is characterized by pain in the chest that may also spread to the back, shoulders, or arms. The pain is often worse with coughing, sneezing, or deep breathing. Costochondritis is usually a self-limited condition, meaning that it will go away on its own within a few weeks or months. However, in some cases, the pain can be severe and require medical treatment.