|  | Conditions Treatments | Medical Conditions

What Are the Causes of Chest Wall Pain?

Chest wall pain, or costochondritis, is a condition that causes sharp pain in the chest wall where the breastbone attaches to the ribs. This pain has several causes and should be evaluated by a doctor.

  1. Strain or Injury

    • According to the Mayo Clinic, strenuous exercise, heavy lifting or an injury from a blow to the chest may cause costochondritis.

    Illness or Infection

    • Patients with upper respiratory illnesses may develop costochondritis. An infected costosternal joint that connects the ribs and the breastbone can cause chest wall pain.

    Fibromyalgia

    • People who suffer from fibromyalgia may have a tender area in the chest wall that causes recurring pain.

    Referred Pain

    • Chest wall pain can be referred from another part of the body, such as bones in the spine that press on nerves.

    Heart Attack

    • Pain in the chest wall can also occur during a heart attack.

    Treatment

    • Doctors may prescribe non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, tricyclic antidepressants or muscle relaxants to ease chest wall pain.

Medical Conditions - Related Articles