What is Rib pain? - Causes, Treatment and Symptoms

Rib cage pain is characterized as sudden, sharp, or dull aching that might worsen while moving or coughing, which occurs due to various factors ranging from a simple fracture to a chronic lung condition as they strain the muscles between the ribs. 

Rib pain: Left-sided, Right-sided, or Bilateral 

Rib pain can occur on the left side or right side, sometimes both sides, depending on the underlying organ affected. Bilateral rib pain is often linked to conditions such as costochondritis, resulting from muscle overuse or poor posture. Right-sided rib pain is associated with certain liver and gallbladder conditions, such as hepatitis and gallbladder stones, while left-sided pain is associated with stomach, spleen, or pancreatic-related issues, such as gastritis, enlargement of the spleen, and pancreatitis, resulting in pain that might radiate toward the back.

In females, whether it’s right-sided, left-sided, or bilateral rib pain, it is due to the above-mentioned causes, ranging from digestive issues to reproductive health problems, including hormonal changes, ovulation, or pregnancy. If you’re experiencing sharp pain with associated symptoms such as shoulder pain, fever, etc., consult our experts for comprehensive care.

Reasons for rib pain:

• Muscle strains caused by heavy lifting or overstretching during exercise can lead to discomfort.
• Certain conditions, like costochondritis, may result in sharp, aching pain from cartilage (connecting the ribs to the sternum) inflammation
• Rib injuries or fractures resulting from sudden falls or accidents can lead to rib pain.
• Certain lung-related conditions, such as pneumonia or pleurisy, can contribute to sharp pain along with other symptoms such as fever and shortness of breath.
• Certain lung cancers may also lead to rib cage discomfort and are often accompanied by shortness of breath and wheezing.

When to consult the doctor:

If you are experiencing rib pain along with symptoms like chest tightness, difficulty breathing, pain radiating to the arm, shoulder, or jaw, or dizziness, and the discomfort persists or worsens over time, it’s crucial to seek medical attention. Don’t ignore these warning signs. Consult our specialists today for early diagnosis and timely care.

Don’t wait for signs to grow severe. Consult our Ortho Specialists today

Diagnosis for rib pain:

Common diagnostic tests for rib pain include chest X-rays to identify fractures and detect damage. An MRI scan is recommended to provide an overview of the rib cage, surrounding organs, tissues, and muscles. Additionally, a bone scan is suggested to detect any signs of a bone tumor. The diagnostic tests combined with physical examination play an important role in the evaluation of the underlying cause to treat the rib pain effectively.

Treatment of rib pain:

Certain pain-relieving medications are prescribed to reduce the pain and discomfort around your ribs. We at Yashoda also provide psychotherapy and rehabilitation programs that can help you relieve your pain. Furthermore, our multidisciplinary team, including orthopedic surgeons, pulmonologists, pain management specialists, and general physicians, leverages cutting-edge technology and ensures optimal benefits for patients with rib pain through effective and comprehensive treatment plans.

Have any questions or concerns about your health? We’re here to help! Call us at +918065906165  for expert advice and support.