Medically Reviewed by dr. simi paknikar, MD Last Updated on Dec 31, 2019
Treatment for Costochondritis
Ibuprofen is usually the drug of choice for treatment of mild to moderate pain due to Costochondritis (if no contraindications exist).
Flurbiprofen, ketoprofen and naproxen are alternatives.
Once the diagnosis is established, treatment includes:
- Adequate pain control and reassurance of the patient about the benign nature of the ailment are the prime targets in the treatment of Costochondritis. Pain control requires reduction of inflammation. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are useful. Ibuprofen is usually the drug of choice for treatment of mild to moderate pain due to Costochondritis (if no contraindications exist). Flurbiprofen, ketoprofen and naproxen are alternatives for pain relief.
- Abuse of NSAIDs should never be encouraged. Patient education about the uses and adverse effects of NSAIDs is thus important.
- Application of local heat is helpful
- Gentle stretching of the pectoralis muscles (muscles in the front of the chest) two to three times a day may help.
- Refractory cases (those that do not respond to treatment) may require local infiltration of local anesthetic, steroid, or intercostal nerve block
- Biofeedback is another modality of management. This is a technique of manipulating certain physiological functions.(5✔)
References:
- Costochondritis - (https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/costochondritis/)
- What Is Costochondritis? - (https://www.emedicinehealth.com/costochondritis/article_em.htm#what_is_costochondritis)
- Costochondritis - An Overview - (https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/costochondritis/symptoms-causes/syc-20371175)
- Costochondritis: Diagnosis and Treatment - (https://www.aafp.org/afp/2009/0915/p617.html)
- Prevention of Costochondritis - (https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/costochondritis)
- What You Need To Know About Costochondritis - (https://www.rchsd.org/health-articles/costochondritis-2/)
Published on Jan 03, 2011
Last Updated on Dec 31, 2019