What Is Precordial Catch Syndrome?

Precordial catch syndrome, or Texidor's Twinge, is a benign condition characterized by sharp, usually left-sided chest pain that usually occurs during a specific body position, such as twisting the torso or reaching overhead.

Cause

The cause of precordial catch syndrome is not fully understood. However, it is thought to be caused by a temporary irritation or spasm of the intercostal muscles, the small muscles that lie between the ribs.

Symptoms

The hallmark of precordial catch syndrome is sudden, sharp chest pain on one side of the chest, usually the left. The pain may be accompanied by a feeling of tightness, pressure, or pulling in the chest. It typically lasts for a few seconds to minutes and resolves spontaneously, but it can recur frequently.

The pain typically does not radiate to other parts of the body and is not associated with other symptoms such as shortness of breath, nausea, or light-headedness.

Diagnosis

Precordial catch syndrome is diagnosed based on the patient's symptoms and physical examination. The doctor may also order diagnostic tests, such as an electrocardiogram (ECG) and chest X-ray, to rule out other possible causes of chest pain.

Treatment

There is no specific treatment for precordial catch syndrome. The treatment focuses on relieving the pain and preventing future episodes:

- Taking over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen

- Stretching and strengthening exercises targeting the intercostal muscles

- Avoiding activities that trigger the pain

In some cases, the doctor may recommend physical therapy to help improve posture and flexibility and reduce the risk of future episodes.

Prognosis

Precordial catch syndrome is generally benign and does not cause long-term harm. With proper management and lifestyle modifications, most people can find relief from the pain and prevent future episodes.