From the Guidelines
Treatment for costochondritis typically involves over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen (400-800mg three times daily with food) or naproxen (220-500mg twice daily with food) to reduce inflammation and pain, as recommended by recent guidelines 1. The goal of treatment is to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life, with most cases resolving within a few weeks to months with conservative treatment.
- Rest and avoiding activities that worsen chest pain are essential components of treatment.
- Heat or ice application to the affected area for 15-20 minutes several times daily can provide relief.
- Gentle stretching exercises for the chest muscles may help once acute pain subsides. For severe cases, a doctor might prescribe stronger pain medications or administer a local corticosteroid injection directly into the affected cartilage area, as suggested by expert consensus recommendations 1. It is crucial to note that if pain persists beyond the expected timeframe or is accompanied by fever, difficulty breathing, or other concerning symptoms, medical evaluation is necessary to rule out other conditions.
- Physical therapy focusing on posture improvement and chest stretching may benefit patients with recurring episodes. Overall, the treatment approach should prioritize reducing inflammation, managing pain, and improving functional ability, with a focus on patient education and lifestyle recommendations 1.
From the Research
Treatment for Costochondritis
The treatment for costochondritis typically involves a combination of medications, lifestyle modifications, and alternative therapies.
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used to reduce inflammation and relieve pain 2, 3.
- Acetaminophen can also be used to manage pain, especially in patients who cannot tolerate NSAIDs 3.
- In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be used to reduce inflammation and relieve pain 4.
- Sulfasalazine may be used to treat recurrent costochondritis, with 10 out of 11 patients in one study responding to treatment 4.
Alternative Therapies
- Stretching exercises have been shown to be effective in reducing pain and improving symptoms in patients with costochondritis 5.
- External application of herbal medicines, such as Rhizoma Corydalis and borneol, may also be beneficial in relieving pain and improving symptoms 6.
Lifestyle Modifications
- Avoiding activities that exacerbate the condition, such as heavy lifting or strenuous exercise, can help alleviate symptoms 3.
- Applying heat or cold packs to the affected area may also help reduce pain and inflammation 3.