What Is the Treatment for Costochondritis?
Costochondritis is inflammation of the cartilage at the junction of the ribs and sternum, typically causing localised chest wall pain that can be reproduced on palpation. First-line management follows a structured evidence-based approach centred on symptom relief and recovery.
Treatment Approach
References
- Traditional practice is to treat with acetaminophen or anti-inflammatory medications where safe and appropriate, advise patients to avoid activities that produce chest muscle overuse, and provide reassurance.
- Treatment of costochondritis consists of analgesia, rest, and reassurance.
- Simple analgesics; heat or ice; rarely, local anesthetic injections or steroid injections.