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What Causes Sternum Pain?
Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Bharath Reddy D , Cardiologist
Sternum pain, or chest bone pain, refers to discomfort in the sternum, the bone running down the center of the chest. It can result from digestive, muscular, skeletal, or cardiac issues. Early detection and appropriate treatment are crucial for avoiding complications and leading a better life.
What are the Sternum Pain Symptoms and Warning Signs?
Signs and symptoms of sternum pain depend on the underlying cause and may be mild to severe and limited to chest pain. Recognising such early signposts informs prudent management.
Common Symptoms
- Sharp, aching, or burning pain in the chest
- Tenderness or swelling around the sternum
- Pain that worsens with deep breathing or movement
- Discomfort when touching the chest
- Radiating pain to the back, shoulders, or arms
Severe Symptoms (Seek Immediate Care)
- Chest tightness or pressure
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Pain associated with nausea or sweating
What are the Different Types of Sternum Pain?
Sternum pain may present in several forms depending on the cause:
- Musculoskeletal Pain: From costochondritis or muscle strain
- Digestive-Related Pain: From acid reflux or GERD
- Cardiac Pain: From angina or a heart attack
- Trauma-Related Pain: From rib injuries or impact
- Inflammatory Pain: From pleurisy or autoimmune diseases
What are the Common Causes and Risk Factors of Sternum Pain?
Chest pain can result from a variety of causes, some of which are simple and not serious, while others may be more severe and require immediate medical attention. Understanding what might cause or contribute to a problem can help prevent and manage it.
Causes
- Costochondritis: Inflammation of rib-sternum cartilage
- Muscle strain: Overuse or sudden movements
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Acid irritation of the esophagus
- Rib injuries: Bruised or fractured ribs
- Heart conditions: Angina or myocardial infarction
- Lung infections or pleurisy
Risk Factors
- Physical overexertion
- Poor posture
- Chronic digestive disorders
- Autoimmune diseases
- Smoking
- Older age or family history of cardiac issues
Consult a doctor if chest pain persists, worsens, or follows physical trauma.
Get a second opinion from trusted experts and makeconfident, informed decisions.
Get Second OpinionHow is Sternum Pain Diagnosed?
Accurate diagnosis of sternum pain requires a combination of clinical evaluation and diagnostic tools. A healthcare professional will tailor the assessment to your symptoms and history.
Common Diagnostic Methods
- Medical History and Physical Exam: To identify potential strain, injury, or inflammation
- Imaging Studies: X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs to detect fractures or abnormalities
- Blood Tests: To identify infections, inflammation, or cardiac markers
- Other Tests:
- ECG (Electrocardiogram): To assess heart function
- Endoscopy: To check for GERD-related damage
- Pulmonary Function Test: To evaluate lung involvement
Medicover offers all these diagnostic services under one roof with expert interpretation.
What are the Treatment Options for Sternum Pain?
Treatment depends on the cause of pain, ranging from medication to lifestyle adjustments and, in rare cases, surgical procedures.
Medication Options
- NSAIDs: Ibuprofen or naproxen for inflammation
- Pain Relievers: Acetaminophen for mild to moderate pain
- Muscle Relaxants: For chest wall or muscular causes
- Antacids/Acid Reducers: For GERD-related discomfort
Therapies and Interventions
- Physical Therapy: Improves posture, mobility, and strength
- Lifestyle Modifications: Stress management, posture correction, avoiding heavy lifting
- Surgical Options: Rarely needed, but may involve repair of rib fractures or cardiac issues
At Medicover, specialists provide personalised care plans and ongoing follow-ups to ensure a full recovery.
When to See a Doctor?
Knowing when to seek medical care can prevent serious outcomes, especially with chest-related symptoms.
- If chest pain lasts more than a few hours
- If pain worsens with breathing or movement
- If pain is accompanied by nausea, breathlessness, or cold sweats
- High-risk groups: people with a heart disease history, smokers, or those over 50
Always err on the side of caution with chest pain.
Your health is everything - prioritize your well-being today.
Consult Sternum Pain Doctors Today
What is the Recovery Process After Sternum Pain Treatment?
Recovery depends on the cause but generally improves with rest, therapy, and lifestyle changes.
Post-Treatment Expectations
- Follow-up: Regular checks with a physician or physical therapist
- Lifestyle Adjustments: Avoid triggers like lifting, maintain good posture
- Long-term Outlook: Most recover fully with proper care
Medicover provides ongoing support, pain management plans, and wellness guidance tailored to each patient.
What Precautions Can Help Prevent Sternum Pain?
Preventing sternum pain involves identifying triggers and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Prevention
- Practice correct posture
- Manage acid reflux through diet
- Use safe techniques when lifting
- Avoid smoking
- Regular health check-ups
Complications (If Untreated)
- Chronic chest pain
- Reduced mobility
- Underlying heart or lung conditions may worsen
- Long-term digestive issues in GERD cases
Our Experience Treating Sternum Pain
At Medicover, our multidisciplinary approach is applied to the evaluation of each case of sternum pain. We're dedicated to providing expert diagnosis, treatment, and care, including onsite digital x-rays, lab services, and a Custom Rehab Program. We're committed to helping our patients live pain-free lives with confidence and comfort.
