Costochondritis Treatment at Atlantic Spine Center | Expert Care & Intercostal Injections
Relief from chest wall pain begins here.
What Is Costochondritis?
Costochondritis is a condition that involves inflammation of the cartilage where the ribs attach to the breastbone (sternum), resulting in localized chest wall pain. Although the symptoms may mimic cardiac-related discomfort, costochondritis is musculoskeletal in nature and often responds well to targeted treatment.
At Atlantic Spine Center, our specialists are experienced in evaluating pain symptoms and distinguishing costochondritis from other potential causes through a comprehensive clinical assessment.
Common Symptoms
Patients with costochondritis typically report:
- Sharp, aching, or pressure-like pain near the sternum
- Pain that worsens with movement, deep breathing, or coughing
- Tenderness when pressing on the rib joints
- Discomfort that may fluctuate in intensity
If you're experiencing persistent or unexplained chest wall pain, an accurate diagnosis is key to relief.
Conservative Approaches: Physical Therapy Referral
While Atlantic Spine Center does not offer physical therapy on-site, conservative treatments such as physical therapy are often the first step in managing mild to moderate costochondritis.
We may recommend referral to a qualified physical therapist who can assist with:
- Postural training and stretching
- Rib cage mobilization
- Techniques to reduce mechanical stress on the chest wall
These approaches can reduce strain and inflammation in the affected area, particularly in the early stages of the condition.
Intercostal Injections: Targeted Relief from Rib and Chest Wall Pain
For patients whose symptoms do not resolve with conservative care, we offer image-guided intercostal nerve block injections as an effective next step.
These minimally invasive procedures can:
- Reduce localized inflammation
- Alleviate nerve-related chest wall pain
- Support a return to normal function and daily activity
Intercostal injections are administered by our board-certified spine specialists at our facility. Many patients experience significant improvement following treatment.
When to Seek Care
We encourage patients to schedule a consultation if they have:
- Ongoing chest pain lasting longer than a few days
- Pain that interferes with breathing or movement
- Limited response to rest, anti-inflammatory medications, or home care
Early evaluation helps prevent unnecessary discomfort and ensures proper management.
Request a Consultation
At Atlantic Spine Center, our focus is on delivering minimally invasive, evidence-based treatment options to relieve pain and restore quality of life. If you are experiencing symptoms of costochondritis, contact us today to learn how we can help.
Frequently Asked Questions About Costochondritis
What is costochondritis?
Costochondritis is inflammation of the cartilage where the ribs connect to the breastbone (sternum). This condition often causes localized chest wall pain that may feel similar to heart-related discomfort, but it is musculoskeletal in nature.
How is costochondritis treated?
Initial treatment often includes conservative methods such as rest, over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy referrals. If pain persists, Atlantic Spine Center offers intercostal nerve block injections to provide targeted, long-lasting relief.
Is costochondritis serious?
Costochondritis is not life-threatening, but it can cause significant discomfort and interfere with breathing or movement. Early diagnosis and the right treatment plan can greatly reduce symptoms and improve your quality of life.
