Pinched or blown: the doctor explained why there is pain in the ribs

The condition when there is a burning pain in the ribs is called intercostal neuralgia. What causes unpleasant sensations and how to treat it, Yuri Koryukalov, neurophysiologist, candidate of biological sciences, author of a method of non-surgical treatment of the spine, told Klops.

The main symptoms of intercostal neuralgia are sharp, acute pain that increases with movement, coughing and breathing. It can be accompanied by numbness and tingling in that part of the body.

“The pathology often mimics heart or lung diseases, which often makes diagnosis more difficult,” said the doctor.

The causes of intercostal neuralgia can be different. Neurophysiologist Koryukalov recognizes seven main ones.

1. Osteochondrosis and degenerative changes of the spine. Herniated and bulging discs in the thoracic region can put pressure on nerves, causing pain throughout the intervertebral spaces.

2. Injuries to the chest and spine. Fractures or bruises of the ribs, as well as microtraumas that cause damage to nerve fibers, can cause neuralgia.

3. Herpes zoster (herpes zoster). The virus attacks the intercostal nerves, causing severe pain and skin rashes.

4. Hypothermia. Prolonged exposure to cold often leads to muscle spasms, which can compress nerve fibers and cause pain.

5. Stress and physical stress. Extreme stress and fatigue often lead to muscle tension that affects the nerve endings between the ribs.

6. Hormonal and endocrine diseases. Metabolic problems, such as diabetes, can weaken nerve tension, making it more susceptible to damage.

7. Intoxication and taking some medicines. Some substances also have a negative effect on the nervous system, weakening it and causing irritation of nerve endings.

Important

The symptoms of intercostal neuralgia are similar to those of other, more serious diseases, such as angina, heart attack or pneumonia.

“If you start treatment without a proper diagnosis, you can lose important time for serious heart or lung problems, which can cause serious side effects,” said Yuri Koryukalov.

But when you think you are suffering from neuralgia, you should not take medicines or put warm compresses on your ribs without a doctor’s advice. Such idle activities will only make the inflammation worse if the illness is related to an infection.

Treatment of intercostal neuralgia

The doctor prescribes painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs. Physical therapy or hand and gravity therapy may also be recommended. The latter effectively helps to relieve muscle tension and improve the condition of the spine, the doctor concluded.