Patient's question:
Pain in the sternum and ribs has occurred many times, but chest X-rays have shown no abnormalities. However, the pain has persisted intermittently for two years. Hello, could it possibly be intercostal neuralgia? What kind of help do you need: Based on your experience, could it be intercostal neuralgia?Doctor's answer:
Costochondritis is a common condition, many people suffer from it. Why do primary and secondary school students in China do physical exercises during breaks every day? It's to prevent the atrophy of the intercostal nerves. Costochondritis doesn't hurt when touched or pressed, the area is wide, without a fixed point, and without a regular pattern—sometimes it hurts, sometimes it doesn't. Sometimes, pain feels like a needle prick when inhaling. X-rays of the lungs are normal, and the ECG is normal. It's recommended to do more chest-expanding exercises, train the chest muscles, and practice deep breathing. If necessary, you can take some Vitamin B1, oryzanol, and salvia miltiorrhiza. I hope I can help you, and wish you good health.