Costochondritis Treatment - Ask Doctor Jo

Costochondritis is the inflammation of the cartilage where the ribs meet the breastbone or where the cartilage attaches to the ribs. These stretches & exercises may help relieve the pain. See another Dr. Jo video with chest stretches: • Chest Stretches for Ti...
Costochondritis can be on one or both sides, but it is often on the left side and can mimic the pain of a heart attack. These treatments may help relieve the pain from costochondritis, but since the symptoms can mimic a heart attack, always seek immediate medical attention for the sudden onset of this type of pain.
Deep breathing exercises often help with opening up the ribcage which can gently stretch the area and help reduce the inflammation. You can do the breathing alone or you can add your arms to get an extra stretch.
Lying down and doing a trunk rotation with your arms stretched out can also get a great stretch in the whole ribcage to relieve costochondritis pain. You might feel it more on the outside, but it will stretch the whole area.
Sometimes thoracic back weakness is a cause because your shoulder will roll forward causing pressure and irritation to the joints. So strengthening the upper back with Ts and Ys will help as well.
Pec or chest stretches are also a great way to open up the chest area. You can stretch on a foam roller, towel, or rolled up yoga mat lying down. You can also use a corner or doorway, or even a stick or cane to get the stretch.
Scapular or shoulder squeezes and rows with a resistive band will also help strengthen the upper back area to help relieve pressure from the chest area.
Related Videos:
Chest Stretches for Tight or Sore Muscles:
• Chest Stretches for Ti...
Chest Muscle Pain Relief:
• Chest Muscle Pain Reli...
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Doctor Jo is a licensed Physical Therapist and Doctor of Physical Therapy.
SUPPORT Dr. Jo on Patreon for as little as $1 a month, and get cool rewards: / askdoctorjo
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Costochondritis Treatment:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=/_irA...
DISCLAIMER: This content (the video, description, links, and comments) is not medical advice or a treatment plan and is intended for general education and demonstration purposes only. This content should not be used to self-diagnose or self-treat any health, medical, or physical condition. Don’t use this content to avoid going to your own healthcare professional or to replace the advice they give you. Consult with your healthcare professional before doing anything contained in this content. You agree to indemnify and hold harmless Ask Doctor Jo, LLC, its officers, employees, and contractors for any and all losses, injuries, or damages resulting from any and all claims that arise from your use or misuse of this content. Ask Doctor Jo, LLC makes no representations about the accuracy or suitability of this content. Use of this content is at your sole risk.

[@AskDoctorJo]

Need a long foam roller to perform one of the stretches shown in the video above? Click here: amzn.to/2FUlCdI (affiliate link) Don't forget to hit the 🔴 *SUBSCRIBE* 🔴 button above! *Find all of my videos at **kzbin.info*

[@houseofdrama794]

It is painful

[@lani2023]

What kind of pillow is that purple thing?

[@diy5729]

I had every single rib fractured in car accident, also C6 fracture, lungs collapse, double infections. Six months later i have massive inflammation around torso that wont go away. The more i move, the more it gets worse. I dont know what else to do.

[@krutarthmashruwala8910]

I am having pain in manubrium area near the top sternum..I tried your exercises but it doesn't pain anywhere during the exercise.however while lying down inverted, the pain occurs.also during the hips up pose of suryanamaskara yoga it pains heavily..is it surely costocondritis or something else..

[@emilysongore7424]

When I stretch my chest, there is this sound like kaaaah sound from my chest but happens once whenever I start my stretches. At first it was painful but nowadays it's just the sound. Is it going to end?.

[@courtneybesser7444]

anyone here, like me, in their twenties that have this condition?

[@lahsib671]

I have this condition since 3 years Started to feel this pain when i was doing pull ups since then it has stayed with me. Hope you guys stay pain free. Prayers for you all.

[@AnonymousAlien2099]

Me

[@AnonymousAlien2099]

I'm 18

[@Sooberries3]

Anonymous alien omg sameeee I’m dying at first I thought I had something really bad 😭

[@BoyBlessing]

Me

[@anios6511]

The comments make me feel understood. I can't explain the pain, it's so painful. But here everyone is having the same experience.

[@cassandraconroy563]

Me, too. I was hospitalized 2 years ago the pain was intense and I couldn't breathe or barely move and I have a high threshold for pain. A month ago it came back and I came here to find some help. Reading all of these comments along with the video is encouraging. I wish you speedy healing!

[@samach6652]

I know. I am suffering

[@Laura-wj8ts]

@@cassandraconroy563 what did the hospital do ? Because I went to the doctor but they didn’t give me anything for the pain .... d

[@cassandraconroy563]

@@Laura-wj8tsOh dear I am sorry to hear that happened to you. Why would they not give you something for pain;? If you have been diagnosed with costochondritis your physician should definitely give you something appropriate for you to help with the pain. My advice would be to get a second opinion to obtain a firm diagnosis, rule out any other potential issues and find some help to alleviate the pain. At the hospital on first visit ...I was diagnosed with "pleurisy" and given a prescription for ibuprofen and advised to go to my primary care physician. A few days later I had to go back to the hospital as the pain had worsened and become unbearable. My doctor had not been able to see me (long wait of weeks) They ran some tests, did a scan, diagnosed me with costochondritis and gave me ibuprofen and advised me to follow up with my primary care physician. In the last three years I have suffered bouts of absolutely excruciating unrelenting pain that literally disables me. I had to keep begging my doctor to do a scan of some type because it didn't feel like costochondritis based on everything I had read and some of the physical therapy things I had done for costochondritis. Finally after multiple trips to the doctors (in between long waiting periods for appointments) - finally a CT scan was done which revealed a much worse issue in my chest with severe bone erosion and bone growth and fluid, etc.... which affects my ribs as well. Now I am going for bone biopsies to examine further. The reason I am telling you and anyone who reads this is because sometimes it is possible to receive the wrong diagnosis or wrong treatment. Sometimes our doctor(s), like mine, will dismiss it as "you're just getting old" or "you must have had a cold or flu" or any number of things. Mine told me to take TUMS (antacid) and let them know if that helped. HORRIBLE. I have been suffering for 3 years beyond anything I have ever endured before. I had to become so assertive - I told my doctor that I need a scan - I need a solution. I ended up switching primary care physicians (took a lot but I did it) and now at least I am getting some answers and hopefully some solutions soon! In the meantime I juice a LOT of greens from our garden mixed with carrots and celery and ginger. I cut out any foods that cause or exacerbate inflammation and I do the very best I can to avoid physical activities that strain the problem area and cause the pain to skyrocket. If you are not getting help - do the best you can to do things for your body that support healing and search and search until you find a health practitioner who can help you in the healing process! And, as for me, I pray a lot to The Great Physician, my Maker YaHuWaH. He made my body and He can heal me. Sometimes we obtain healing miraculously - in a moment. Sometimes there are reasons why we end up having to wait - there is always some good that comes from going through trials and tribulations even in the most challenging of trials and tribulations. Even through brushes with severe illness or brushes with death. This is not a flippant or arrogant statement. It has been very tough an ordeal but my faith is strong and I want to encourage anyone who endures struggles whether they are physical or emotional / mental. We have a loving Creator - King Who can and will help us and deliver us through every trial and tribulation if our heart is open to Him. He didn't make us automatons without a free will choice. We must also take actions ourselves in any situation to make the right choices. But I do know His mercy and kindness and am grateful for His provision and the joy of knowing Him is my strength every day!

[@Laura-wj8ts]

@@cassandraconroy563 thank you for you answer I am definitely going to get a second opinion!

[@Garyxl4]

Nice to see I’m not the only young person to have this 😂

[@DavidLuvFr]

I have it but when I walk around it hurts my chest

[@anaroseantonio3005]

I have too

[@jviekim]

Me too. When im breath heavily

[@johncullinan4201]

Yea sometimes it is so bad I can't move

[@Laralipy]

Ive been looking for my symptoms and this is the closest ive gotten i experience everything and sometimes ive im weirdly postured or when i get up and i take a deep breath i feel the middle of my back slowly having a poking feeing and under my ribs i feel a random pulse type feeling it comea and goes randomly

[@edwardstanley2195]

I am 65 and have had it for 6yrs. I was doing push ups and dips when my chest popped. No heart problems, xray, EKG, and blood work good. Ortho said it was costochondritis. These things give me relief during flares. Anti-inflammatory diet, Cold pads for swelling, heat pad for pain, anica natural gel for pain, and tumeric ginger tea. I wish you all well.

[@slowmotion2119]

Is causes swelling?

[@kevinmartin1990]

Feel like I’m dying I’m 19

[@stonrdoggo4289]

Thank you so much.

[@johnny-mnemonic13]

@@EddieTheKing369 Thank you

[@AmandasLifeontape]

Did it ever go away for you? I’ve been dealing with this for 12 years now

[@ptrwg]

I did some of these and I feel so much better. My anxiety would go crazy the minute I felt the pain around my sternum and honestly felt like I'm gonna pass out. After calming myself down a bit and did these stretches, I can breathe properly, and the pain would reduce. Thank you for this video.

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome.

[@bluebluesky3170]

That's fantastic that you got your anxiety under control and helped ease your symptoms. Anxiety just doesn't help at all. I'm pretty sure that my current attack of costo is partly due to anxiety over a major life change, so your comment gives me hope, thank you!

[@hannahinman4271]

First time I had this, I thought I was having a heart attack in my teenage years 😂 my left arm always goes numb when it happens.

[@fairyinbootsdancing]

I was exactly the same I had like 3 ecg in a year and a couple chest xrays 🙈 I've had paramedics out so many times as my arm gets tingly and it radiates throughout my chest and back its horrible. And bot much can be done about it either

[@anushkathapa7050]

@@fairyinbootsdancing , I got them same symptoms from few days and I don't know how to get rid of it.

[@Egirl609]

Same my arm goes numb.

[@ayayao.3357]

I’ve had two doctors tell me I have this and they couldn’t do anything about it😅 gonna try everything on KZbin I guess.

[@nouh3927]

@@fairyinbootsdancing me too I have chest pain in left area. I think it comes from my heart. I am wondering it this could be coronary artery disease but I am healthy I don't have cholesterol or diabetes. Wondering how much time it took u to heal it.

[@jesseleprotti]

Wow I can’t lie, I had zero hope when I started this. But this actually helped. I thought I was having a heart attack but these stretches actually worked

[@ayushiyadav3688]

Prayers for all..and me too...those who are suffering...i can too feel that pain🤗hope we all stay always good and happy

[@officialsp1295]

Man I’m so glad that I’m not the only young one dealing with this

[@enyascarve3059]

I had this for a while without knowing till it became a constant pain everyone freaked out thinking it was my heart

[@slowmotion2119]

Is causes swelling???

[@davidakhil4529]

@@enyascarve3059 cured for you?

[@enyascarve3059]

@@davidakhil4529 it occasionally acts up but I’m pretty ok as of right now

[@davidakhil4529]

@@enyascarve3059 what are the precautions you took ? I've been using anti-inflammatory drugs for a month for now, but there's no use at all.

[@sub2domus693]

Honestly I had no pain doing any of these and they actually felt really good. I am one week in and it's already feeling a lot better. I hope your guy's recovery is also doing well.

[@rizallucifer2265]

is it gone?

[@arielnichols3152]

Swear I just started this today in feel very good

[@beauty6795]

I’m here for my little sister who has been experiencing the pain. I know I can’t understand how bad it is but this is me trying to help as best as I can

[@niyasreenivas256]

❤

[@kevinvillegas5269]

God bless you!

[@glenowen988]

Buy a back pod

[@bluebluesky3170]

You're a good sister!

[@manasvineiiiii]

Hi , I was diagnosed with costochondritis when I was 17. The pain is horrible. There are nights where I cant sleep because this pain just doesnt go away. I want to thank you for showing me these exercises. They help a lot. It makes me feel amazing and I'm so happy I stumbled upon your video.

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome.

[@Ashwini642]

How days you have done

[@cardiniurah7441]

Is it gone!???

[@robinthakur6392]

Heyy... Now your pain is gone ?

[@rizallucifer2265]

Apakah sudah hilang?

[@MrAckers75]

Just staring to get this and it’s awful. Wake up in middle of the night with burning ribs on my side and I have to change sleep position. In the morning it turns to a dull ache.

[@WildWave]

MrAckers75 how are now ?

[@anios6511]

I can relate

[@chantiacalhoun9147]

I swear, I have never heard of this until today in the hospital. I felt like they made it up. I guess not🤦🏾‍♀️

[@jasminejohnson123423]

I felt that way too!

[@codelogic8918]

man! U wont believe I had this condition from 3 years i felt like I m dying i m 20 now..after doing this exercises after 2 days its gone....thanka a ton doctor jo very much.....

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome.

[@EscapeyourPain]

so you say, that you have had it for 3 years and 2 days with this training and it was gone? wow.

[@jonathanestrada9729]

I've just been thinking about costochondritis over the weekend and then your video just popped up. God bless you, Dr. Jo!

[@diaryofhope2]

I am glad you are doing this because we are in quarantine and everywhere is closed and you helped me a lot with my hand pains and rib pain that I got today when I was sleeping

[@ericwalsh9025]

These exercises help! Every time I get a flare up, I keep trying to work out and I do too much. This was a good tip to not cause further inflammation.

[@linja2272]

I'm 24 and was just diagnosed with this. I get so scared sometimes. I'm thankful for this video. Hope everyone is finding relief.

[@AskDoctorJo]

I hope they help.

[@braymedrano5667]

How did u get it?

[@allann7333]

I experienced costochondritis 3 years. I experienced an inflammation in the my corner left chest muscle near my left shoulder, triggering an extreme panic attack. It was so scary. Lately, I experienced that episode again, but I managed to get it under control with stretching and breathing exercises.

[@Smellb]

24 years old, went to the ER for severe chest pain, luckily my heart is really healthy. Turns out this pain that is so severe I feel like passing out, is just inflammation! Amazing how much this hurts (even with pokey painkillers). I have to travel for work in 7 days, hope it clears up before then!

[@wildhunt2235]

Do you still have the pain?

[@Smellb]

@@wildhunt2235 every so often! It especially flares up if I’m stressed

[@Smellb]

@-- that’s awful, I’m so sorry that happened to you

[@Puzzlarium1]

@@Smellbey its been an year … has your problem solved?

[@nikahopper2178]

Omg I’ve had this for over 20+ years at no point has a doctor recommended that PT stretches could help, seriously PT are the most under utilized health care workers. Thank you I’m so happy I found this, I hope this helps.

[@AskDoctorJo]

Amen! You're welcome. I hope it helps too.

[@carolinestoughton4008]

did it work??? I'm scared of making it worse

[@nalinnmane9047]

This video really helped me. I repeated it for three days and then the pain was gone. Amazing!

[@asimfamilyvlogs]

I am an artist (not professional), and I spend most of my time sitting while drawing. I realised this is the cause why I have chostocondritis. Anxiety makes it worse. Luckily I found ways to help me with my pains and I feel a lot better now.

[@luchatech7889]

Can you share your ways, please!

[@nouh3927]

me too I have chest pain in left area. I think it comes from my heart. I am wondering it this could be coronary artery disease but I am healthy I don't have cholesterol or diabetes. Wondering how much time it took u to heal it.

[@halftimelordwizard]

Hey lailah, what else has helped you with costochondritis

[@asimfamilyvlogs]

Hey guys, I just followed all Doctor Jo's exercises. But the one I find very efective is the door exercise where you put your hands up wide apart and stretch them. You can do it even anywhere as long as there is something to hold on to. Sometimes I hang myself with my hands as long as I can feel that stretch in my ribs. I can't explain it well, I hope you get me. I really want to help. Luckily, it's been a long time that I haven't felt chostocondritis.

[@chesyarts1691]

Hi Lailah how long have you been experiencing costochondritis ? I have been having this for 3 years now and I'm an artist too and I draw alot and I have bad posture while I draw and this might have cause me to have costochondritis this happens to me like 1,2 times a week and wishing this condition would go away Edit: your drawings are amazing btw plus I subed ^^ ❤️

[@Positive_motivation802]

I’ve come back to this video many times over the last few weeks since I was diagnosed with Costo. This comment section has really help me not feel so alone so I wanted to share somethings I have dealt with so far to possibly help someone else get comfort that they are not alone. This condition can cause a lot of health anxiety. My heart will race thinking about it and I ended up going back to the doctors for them to confirm is was anxiety and over thinking that caused it seeing how costo is not a heart condition. I also experience more pain surrounding eating. When I eat it seems to irritate it as well. Small meals are better, no fried, less red meat, and more salads I heard are good and seem to cause less flare up. Going into three weeks with this and I wouldn’t wish it on my worst enemy. It all started after I worked for a month straight, 50 hours plus and just over working myself. It has been a wake up call to slow down. I hope this helps someone, also, I’m 28 so for this to happen was very scary for me Edited to add-the one thing that helped me the most was acupuncture!! I never tried it before but I’ve been 95% pain free the last 3 months in the sternum area

[@ts2357]

Man I have the exact same experience I thought there was something wrong with my heart when it was just Costo it was very difficult

[@Skeletoncarrot]

Same. It started for me a few years ago when I was regularly picking up heavy boxes for my job. My health anxiety became so bad because I thought I was dying. I was relieved it was just costo, but sometimes my anxiety gets the better of me.

[@yendaaaa]

Im 28 too, bout to go onto a month…I literally thought I was gonna have a heart attack 😢

[@christinatheodoulou1193]

Same it's scary especially as it's near the heart x

[@mattduggan8774]

Wow thanks for this comment, I keep getting lightheaded when I feel those Costo pains over my heart cuz I think I’m having heart attack. First time seeing this video does it help?

[@joerobertson3478]

Your videos have brought a lot of healing and comfort in what has been a terrible year for my back and ribs. Thanks!

[@AskDoctorJo]

You’re welcome!

[@tunaman2231]

Does anyone else have pain in sternum, but also in between shoulder blades?

[@djswishersweethoustontx4352]

Yes. It suck s.

[@bethh1138]

Yes, it’s only been a few days for me, but it lasts all day. Dull ache when I wake up, and through out the day it gets more frequent and intense. Have you found anything that helps with the pain?

[@mattmoleski]

Soggy Tid i noticed when i move around more and exercise i dont feel it but if it hurts while exercising i wouldnt recommend that

[@SuperEsmiles]

Yes, definitely. It makes me paranoid that I have the rona. Even though I def don’t.

[@sumaiyasam9002]

Yes meee

[@vernalowery8798]

Thank you Thank you! I've had a rough last few weeks of this chest tightness/pain and feeling of not breathing well. This video helped me so much and I'm so grateful 💗 I'm able to breathe in fully with no pain now for the first time in 3 weeks. I will be watching this video and implementing it in my daily stretching routine.

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome! I'm glad it helped.

[@Gosfordesign]

Phew, thanks for this. Been suffering for a few days and finally had the energy to look up some exercises instead of just rest it away as usual. I can finally take deep breaths after 3 days!

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome.

[@Vindicated15]

Did it end up going away ?

[@stevemora7845]

This really worked! Loosened me up to be able to breathe better. Amazing

[@bluebluesky3170]

I've had repeated bouts of costo for 3 years. 3 years ago this month, I was hospitalised with Covid. I'd had costo before but I didn't recognise it at first this time, because it started in my shoulder. I'm now dealing with it again, and just yesterday it spread to the left hand side of my chest too. It is an awful pain to deal with, but these are the first stretches I've seen specific to the condition, so thank you so much!

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome!

[@kaursingh577]

I've been suffering from costochronditis for 2 years now. I also have diabetes type 1 and hyperthyroid but this is the worst pain and condition I've been in till date. I have breathing problems because of it and always in horrible pain. My upper part of my body feels inflamed and hurts the most after work. My only advice besides these exercises would be to drink fresh ginger tea in the morning and pure chamomille tea whenever your muscles contract a lot. It has been a life saver for me.

[@ancientloser]

does anyone feel that sometimes when it really hurts you need an urge to stretch and when you do the cartilages in your chest go pop! and you feel a bit better momentarily?

[@karenchatman1021]

Yes, to bad it does not last long...but I'll take just a little relief

[@tropicalpeng]

Hey there im going through the same thing, and i cant go to the doctor since its quarantined. but i used to smoke not heavy but i would take alot of drags at once but ive quit and its been about 3 months, and i might be getting a bit better but i have to maintain a proper posture or else itll hurt and i have to pop it again which relieves the pain but takes a bit of effort sometimes. its right in the middle of my chest. i went to the doctors and also got an ECG but its normal and they gave me some painkillers but the thing is workout pretty often these days bodyweights and what not but when i do push ups it kinda hurts a bit. i was wondering whether i should quit working out for some time to let this heal or will this heal on its own if i stay healthy and maintain a proper posture. thank you

[@HVTCA.]

@@tropicalpeng same senario with me, i feel it more in my upper rib cage/shoulders too when i move my arms. starting to think theres inflamation in my lungs from smoking or working out. or lung cancer...

[@issahsimba2725]

Wow exactly the reason why am here

[@ShaggyD09]

How about..when there's a lot pain and you sneeze?? like a nueclear Bomb.

[@robertclark3157]

I have this pain every night it's horrible and I have anxiety so chest hurts all the time, godbless everyone who has it x

[@galjian]

Thank you so much for demonstrating these exercises and in slow manner. This is so needed in order to correct the problem properly. It is a very painful condition and would love to get this under control. Keep up the good work and appreciate you teaching us out here.❤

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome.

[@jacksonmears5046]

I cant put into words how much I appreciate you and your video. I’m only 21 and have had this flair up several times. It appears like I’m one of the lucky ones to only have it for a week or so each time and couldn’t imagine dealing with it ANY LONGER than a few days. I truly wish anyone who has it pure hope and all my prayers. I’m so sorry and know it’ll get better!!!🥺

[@emilywhite234]

Those scapular squeezes are a blessing. Thanks for this!

[@AskDoctorJo]

You’re welcome.

[@jess.chiefette]

This has been so helpful for me. Thank you so much. Your knowledge about costochondritis made me feel normal. Not many doctors know much about this condition and I really appreciate you posting this.

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome. I hope it helps!

[@disharaina4740]

Exactly!!! Doctors aren't even able to recognise its costochondritis

[@1971caz38]

@@disharaina4740 did a scan said was fractured ribcage. I don't rem falling

[@danhill3265]

I've been battling this for a year now. Doctors keep sending me In circles. But no answers no help

[@seventhparrot9640]

@@danhill3265 hey same bro. I think physical therapy and either cardio or light weight lifting has helped me. Also look into collagen it helps for building tendons back, I just started taking it and it’s helped a bit so far

[@dekelanson5280]

Dr Jo, Thank you. I had been in great pain around my ribs. I tried your stretches, and a couple days later I feel better. This is the 3rd time your videos have helped me with various pains. You're a Godsend.

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome. Glad they have helped.

[@janetwyer1369]

I've had this condition for about 10 years and was only told about this in April 2019 when I was rushed to A & E .I've been doing your exercises for 3 days now and wish I had found it sooner , at last someone who understands this condition thank you .

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome. Good luck.

[@JerryGeorge1966]

Thank you so much for these exercises. This stuff has been debilitating for me with all the pain, especially at night when trying to sleep. Any relief I get is so appreciated.

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome.

[@connorhasz3116]

I would like to share my story with everyone. I am 18 years old I was a football running back in highschool. One game I got lit up and felt a pop on the left side of my chest. I didn't think to much of it until the next day came and I went to the movies. While at the movies my side started hurting and it felt like I couldn't breath I started sweating and had to leave the theater. I went to the doctors the next day. My CPK levels were extremely high which is cause by a muscle injury. I remember getting so frustrated with the doctors because they kept saying my heart was fine and I did not want to believe that because of how much pain I was in. It has been a year since my injury and nothing at all has changed except I dont get as bad as anxiety as before probably because I have hooked up to an ekg machine multiple times. I want everyone that is experiencing this that I know your pain and I know your frustration because nobody is taking it seriously. Just know I am with you so please use this if anyone needs to talk about it. I will always respond.

[@Elle304]

Sorry about your story, it’s so scary because I always get anxious that I’m gonna have a heart attack or I have something, I had a test and my heart was fine, medicines don’t help me at all

[@sydneycrowe1519]

yeah this is awful. have you found any remedies that help??

[@willepstein4901]

I have been having really bad anxiety because I have pain in my left chest when moving my neck and left arm. I used to vape so my anxiety goes crazy I don’t know what to do

[@connorhasz3116]

@@willepstein4901 When I quit vaping I also started to have these pains. Anxiety attacks are very real in a way where it actually hurts you physically. I know my doctor said anxiety attacks will make really things worse. I suggest getting an ekg and if its normal try to stop thinking about it. Chewing gum tends to lower my anxiety.

[@willepstein4901]

Did the pain go away for you?

[@jasonempleo710]

Your video is a great help. I had this pain since morning but after I followed your exercises, I feel much better now. Pain os gone. Thank you ❤️

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome.

[@bluearmsandfeet]

It’s most painful for me when my chest is touched/pressed, does anyone else find this? extremely sensitive and painful ☹️

[@tarik123mus]

i have the same thing. and i'm freaking out.

[@bluearmsandfeet]

Zero Pinto Honestly I’ve had this for atleast 5 years now just chronic pain. Nothing seems to help so I just have to live with it ☹️

[@tarik123mus]

@@bluearmsandfeet i had it for like 6 months but now it became so painful. and i think i must go to a doctor

[@bluearmsandfeet]

Zero Pinto i’ve been to the doctor about 3 times about this and they know hardly anything about it they just recommend Anti-Inflammatorys but doesn’t rly help. See what they say to you though!

[@MrAckers75]

Painful mostly when I am asleep on my side. I find it’s more of a burning feeling

[@jorgevasquez-lz4be]

Thank you so much! very good informative video !its been five years with this terrible pain The doctors never said costochondritis you are my lifesaver!!!

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome!

[@slim4666]

Was struggling to breath, did this and got the clearest breaths of my life. Thank you so much

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome.

[@samsonk2077]

Thank you so much for this video, Dr. Jo. It helped me a lot with minimizing costochondral inflammation that I had been dealing with on and off for several weeks

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome!

[@deepunair3877]

Anybody have tenderness swelling in left upper ches?

[@kimjones8249]

Thank you so much! I’ve had this a few times now and was always just told to rest. Just trying these exercises have helped. Especially when I can’t sleep at night because the pain is so niggly. I will definitely persevere with these exercises 🙏🏻

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome!

[@chardonnaylavie]

Been dealing with this nasty disease for 10 yrs off and on and my god I’m soooo tired😓😭🥹🥹🥹the pain is most definitely unbearable😑thanks for this video and I pray we all get better❤️‍🩹

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome. I hope it helps.

[@texansszn.1600]

You have no idea how much you helped me today Doc! Flare up @ 3:34 am and been up since with the pain. Took two Aleve and tried your stretches-almost instant relief!

[@AskDoctorJo]

Glad they helped!

[@huntersthompson4075]

Ever since 2014 I dealt with the pain and the difficulty of breathing to go with it, all lower right ribs were slipping after that car accident. My chiropractor appointments brought temporary relief, maybe like a week or two and then it came back. When I really think about it the posture at the desk may have been also a contributing factor. But to the point! The shoulder exercise, it almost brought instant relief, or made breathing more comfortable in the meantime. I'll be sure to continue those exercises. Thanks for sharing!

[@QueenieTT]

Mine isn’t ever really in the sternum itself, more so the ribs under breast/pecs, and also upper chest slightly away from the sternum.

[@HasibYouTube]

Hey, did you recover L

[@kenyavalentine9219]

Mine too

[@16chelonia]

Same here!

[@lilnatenate]

i have that right now, did it heal?

[@monketottenham7100]

@@sincerelyfelicity2273 hey I feel pain on the left side just below my ribs whenever I run or play for like 10 mins please can u tell whether its this or smthng else. I m having this for 6 months now and I'm 18

[@anushka5829]

It Helps!!! I suffered from costochondritis from 2 and a half months!!! Found this video, and wolllaaaa!!! Most of the pain is relieved!!!! Thanks!!

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome!

[@tamilyndugas8466]

I have been asking doctors for years but none could explain what my pain was they only told me it was muscle skeletal. I have heart arrhythmia and told me it wasn’t my heart. Every morning I wake up with pain and it hurts to take a deep breath. Thank you so much for these stretches! They really help. I am so glad I found your video!

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome!

[@anaclaudiabecker6636]

Excellent. I just had this condition. I had chest pain. So I went to the hospital emergency. And the results was that I have Costcochondritis. So I found your video . I did the exercise you suggested.

[@AskDoctorJo]

Thanks. I hope they help.

[@rastagirl007]

Thank you for this wonderful practice...along with Chiro adjustments...I have felt so much relief! Awesome shirt, too!

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome, and thanks!

[@anishas4471]

This comment section gives me hope and reassurance lol I'm only 18😭

[@marija2330]

samee 😭 have u done this exercises do they help?? pls say they do 🥲

[@HasibYouTube]

marija do the stretches and you will recover in one week

[@havefun5420]

@@HasibKZbin i will try bro❤️

[@eleanormaraal5402]

I’m 16 😭

[@vincejopio4184]

How long did yours last?

[@bakiralagic3462]

I had the sharpest pain in my ribs for 45 mins, after I did these stretches/exercises it went away within 5 minutes!!!!! WTH it actually works!

[@Aleyda291]

Ive been three days with this, i just streched the way you said and omg i could breathe way deeper now. Not fully, but this is a great step, thanks for this video!!

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome!

[@christinyou5947]

Thank you for all the good advise. I can't wait to start. I was diagnosed with this a year and a half ago. I went to the E.R once, had my heart checked thoroughly and I wore a heart monitor for 2 weeks. My heart is fine and the Dr. concluded his hunch I had costochondritis. He never told me about these exercises so I am going to give it a go. I woke up this morning crying and desperate like I needed a blog or to talk to someone. Reading the comments here also gives me hope. Thank you again.

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome.

[@dominicfetizan1119]

hi! how are u feeling now?

[@christinyou5947]

I am healed of this by using the back pod periodically. Thank the Lord!!!

[@christinyou5947]

@@dominicfetizan1119 Doing wonderful thank you. Completely healed. I use the back pod every now and then.

[@tiffanynorris1828]

I’ve had this since I was 18 when I was working in the nursing home. Now I am 29 and have flare ups every now and then. Recently been getting them more often

[@enigma5262]

My lil niece has it, and it's terrible. Whenever she has a crisis, am jes so helpless. Glad I found this useful tip. She's gonna try them. Thanks

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome.

[@jcam783]

This has helped tremendously , I have been experiencing Costochondritus for the last year , at 56 years old ,and assured by my Dr., that it was not my heart , I have been doing these stretches . I do pop the occasional Aspirin 88mg , like today while shoveling snow , felt that bit of pain , but it's always on top of the rib cage . I did stop shoveling though , came home ,did the stretches along with the video ,and am feeling a lot better . Thank You Dr. Jo for posting these videos .I am going to make this a part of my everyday routine from now on .

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome.

[@xephon3000]

Thanks for posting this. I woke up with sharp pain which turned out to be costochondritis. I'll be trying some of these to try and alleviate the pain. Thanks again!

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome! I hope they help.

[@lareed2230]

Thanks for creating this video cause I need all the help I can get at this moment. This hurts so bad. Thank a lot.

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome.

[@mariondudek564]

Thank you so much. I developed costochondritis after being on the operating table for 5 hours in reverse Trendeleburg for a robotic gastrectomy. Your exercises gave me more relief than Hydrocodone. Much thanks, again, from a retired Registered Nurse!!

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome! I'm glad it helped.

[@TheStarr760]

Thank you so very, very much. May the Lord bless & protect you for sharing and informing!

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome, and thanks.

[@msbeautifulboss711]

Thank you so much Dr Jo! I started doing a few exercises and I feel so much better! 😊

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome!

[@danielbeachyt5057]

I have it. LOL at first I thought I was dying

[@eleanormaraal5402]

I feel like I’m dying all the time 🤣. I just wish I didn’t look completely fine

[@dspychalski]

I think you are super awesome Dr Jo! As a new subscriber...it was just a 'no brainer'. I the short time I have utilized your advice and videos (thanks for your openness and honestly always!), I have never seen this kind of wide range value from a professional such as yourself! I am so excited! You have already helped me immensely! Thank you!!

[@AskDoctorJo]

Thanks, and you're welcome! I'm glad you are enjoying my channel!

[@Michael-nj1um]

Dr. Jo, I play a little too rough, and because of this I tend to get hurt a lot (obviously with costocondritis now). Your videos have helped treat my many injuries. From the bottom of my heart, thank so much!! Youre the best!!! 👊💪✌

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome, and thanks!

[@surfbuttnakedmorris3734]

Some of these definitely helped, thank you. I've had Costo for a year and 3 months now on and off. It has been alarming, painful, and exhausting but stretching and the backpod definitely work. There's no quick fix for costochondritis so anyone that has it ease into all exercises and take time to relax . I hope a great recovery to everyone costochondritis can suck it haha

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome.

[@EscapeyourPain]

did you lost it or does it go on and off for you still?

[@surfbuttnakedmorris3734]

@@EscapeyourPain it's still on and off depending on what activities I'm doing, but since I've posted this comment I've had way more good days then bad. Sometimes I'll get a little flare up that'll last for the day and nothing for awhile

[@surfbuttnakedmorris3734]

@@EscapeyourPain it's one of the worst most discomforting things I've ever dealt with, and I've broken my collar bone, hand, finger, toe. Shattered my femur haha the costochondritis is terrible compared to a broken bone.

[@EscapeyourPain]

@@surfbuttnakedmorris3734 I think, the most discomfort part for me is "live your life from now on as good as you have lived your life before" At work i am not so productive, as i were before, because this pain let me not focus right on the things. And this is a HUGE issue for my co-workers and therefore also for me. Pain, which you can't see is the worse. I developed Tinnitus 2017 and it took me 2 years to live with the ringing in the ears, but this is a whole new level, because it is not just a constant tone, but different experiences of pain. With breathing issues. It helps me A LOT to see so many people, which were going through it and also, that you are having more good days than bad days. Hopefully, it will go away for you fully, one day

[@stormy7192]

I have had this for about 25 years. It appears it started when I got scoliosis while pregnant with my son. I have been living with this a long time. No doctor has ever shown me an exercise for it. Thank you so much.

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome.

[@EscapeyourPain]

does this help you? 25 years is a very long time..

[@stormy7192]

@@EscapeyourPain actually I got a posture brace since my comment. It works great. I just wear ot a couple days and it's gone. And I noticed drinking a lot of water helps too. I actually forgot about this video.

[@EscapeyourPain]

@@stormy7192 thank you so much for answering, what helped for you :)

[@stephenjones6030]

Thank you, Doctor Joe. Getting old has its drawbacks! I'm sad that I have this condition but I'm grateful for you and people like you that put help (love) out into the universe for us to benefit from.

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome. I hope it helps.

[@jinnie4876]

Thank you so much and God bless you for helping us

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome.

[@Nah-ah]

Omg... I’m so grateful for this video! I haven’t been diagnosed for this issue but I have a strong feeling I have it. Since early October I developed a viral infection, the worst one I’ve had since 15 yrs ago. I’ve had coughing fit, after coughing fit....over a 2 wk period and I pulled muscles that had my husband panic and rush me to emergency bc I couldn’t breathe due to shooting pains, and I could not take a deep breath! It wasn’t my heart, after tests, thank goodness! Fast forward today, I still am experiencing discomfort in my right breast bone and both sides of ribs the shooting pains have gone. I will use these stretch movements gently! While I was coughing and couldn’t breathe back then, naturally I would lean forward and hang on to my table to open up my chest just to breathe after as well as hanging onto a door frame. My sternum area is still sore after all these weeks and it’s worse in the mornings and when I sneeze and cough BUT I will manage better now after watching this video. Thank you so much! Will give these stretches a go! 🙌🏼🙌🏼🙌🏼 2 months is a long time for me to have sore ribs, I don’t wish it on anyone!

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome! I'm glad you are feeling better, and I hope the stretches continue to help. Good luck!

[@shivaniskitchengiri7350]

I got this diagnosed today. Hence I was looking for youtube videos regarding this and jumped here. Well, guys if you are going through this please see a doctor asap. I was going through this from last one year. The onset of pain happened after doing a good workout and yoga. When I stopped, I felt better. When I started again, I felt terrible. So I thought it's just a minor injury and avoided to see a doctor. But today (11/06/2021) my doctor scolded me for bearing this pain from a long time. He advised me to get some tests. And medicines too.. well I'll update my condition after 4 weeks if anyone of you wants to know about my experience, as my doctor said, it might get better. I hope you all get better soon. ❤️

[@rajeshgherade1564]

Did many tests all are almost negative and had pencilers but no much results.

[@aditgarg93]

Help me from last 3 months in pain

[@johnrutter1011]

I love your approach and teaching ability

[@AskDoctorJo]

Thanks!

[@hmm1699]

Am crying in joy. Thank you 😊

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome.

[@bodawson6459]

I am a new grad and have a patient with this. Very helpful thanks!

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome. I hope it helps!

[@arviesadia8723]

Age 23 been experiencing it again 😢 diagnosed since 20. The pain is come and go ,particularly bad when trying to sleep 😔 I usually feel it when it is cold weather too. It is too damn painful 😥these stretches are a big help. Thank you Dr. Jo

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome.

[@jonathankuhn2180]

Did it heal? How long did it take? What helped the most? Thanks

[@braymedrano5667]

@@jonathankuhn2180 how are you😊

[@merylsheeba5940]

This is more useful for my mom...she worked out everything and her pain went off...she is alright now...thank you so much for the nice work out..

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome.

[@pratibhaasthana2540]

Thanks a lot....I did these stretches and they were an instant relief.

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome. Glad they helped.

[@aravindk4060]

Are you having this problem. Is that fixed

[@chynamarley4453]

you guys these comments are great... i cry everyday thinking in the only one that is really going through it ... i hope you all feel okay today my pain is pretty bad at the moment.

[@user-ej2hp8cl3r]

😢I'm in suver ai 😢

[@stephaniekosar3378]

I've had Costochondritis for 2 months now but it started off as chest tightness mostly around the sternum daily for 3-4 hours. I developed anxiety because I thought it was a symptom of Covid-19. Then once I started getting sharp pains, I went to the hospital but my heart was fine. Had a x-ray, CT scan and multiple heart tests done but all came back normal. Thanks for these exercises Dr Jo! I can't wait to work them into my routine!

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome!

[@joelhp9742]

Did it go away ?

[@teresagomez2109]

These are by far the best stretches for my condition. Thank you

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome.

[@ataufiql97]

How do u feel now?

[@Irowthe1x]

I have this - all the exercises she goes through help.

[@certifiedant8423]

Does anyone else have more back pain than chest pain. I fell like it’s mostly in my upper - middle back

[@honeyloucarvero863]

Me huhuhuhu

[@honeyloucarvero863]

Its really painful

[@Neffect371]

Yes I do

[@jacekunnn]

same right now

[@mauigirl31350]

yes. Mine hurts when turning side to side

[@waynetteford4876]

I just found your youtube video here and I want to thank you for sharing your knowledge regarding this very painful costochondritis. I have suffered with this for over a year and currently experiencing a very painful bout of it right now. I finished some of your exercises here and am now loosened up a bit. I am definitely going to be doing more of these exercises as you provide the best that I have seen. Thanks again. Just subscribed to your channel and liked your video. Keep up the great work. Love your dog, by the way. My hubby and I do rescue work with dogs and we absolutely love being able to help these precious animals.

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome, and thanks for subscribing! We love dogs here at Ask Doctor Jo :-) You will see they do cameos in many of my videos. Good luck!

[@mahmoudhussein2582]

How much days u feel good after these excrsices... I have this pain 4 months ago.. Thanks for your replay

[@AskDoctorJo]

It's really different for everyone. With proper stretches and exercises, it can take 4-8 weeks.

[@rudolfnolasco7838]

What is the cause of this?

[@mattjosephhinkle]

Great video! So many useful tips. The broomstick chest stretch feels amazing! Thanks so much!

[@AskDoctorJo]

Thanks, and you're welcome!

[@evergreenking6117]

*I am into weightlifting, keep hurting myself periodically and I swear to God, this woman is my Goddess?How? Everyone talks so much BS but this woman gets right to the point 👍👍👍👍*

[@bethdavidson2274]

I have have such bad anxiety having this costo

[@AskDoctorJo]

I hope these help.

[@Egirl609]

Same never had anxiety attacks until I developed costochondritis.

[@CR-ce5lf]

I had a panic attack couple days ago and I feel developed this condition due to it. I’m trying every video to relieve the pain before I see my doctor

[@Egirl609]

@@CR-ce5lf Breathing exercises and naproxen 500mg 2x a day. However if i stretch, get a good night's rest and watch what I eat I find I have fewer attacks. Does your chest wall and sternum swell? Mind does and it is so painful 😫

[@MrShivBoom]

@@Egirl609 exact same symptoms as me. 😔

[@mikekassel8765]

I'm 22 and have had this condition since I was 19 ish. My doctors did a poor job at diagnosing me. I'm very physically active, which causes me to put a lot of strain on my chest. However, it makes me short of breath SO much, I've been tested for asthma and everything in-between so this is very frustrating. Looking for ways to treat myself more efficiently on a consistent basis before I leave for basic training in the winter. The advice I would give to people is... if you feel like me, short of breath from this condition, just know your perfectly fine! I've been through a rollercoaster of misdiagnosed conditions/diseases and medicines. 2nd - 4th opinions of different doctors are very important to do. AND JUST REMEMBER you know your body best, so don't let one stubborn doctor determine your future. I'm recovering hard still from doctors not showing enough professionalism.... ONE STEP AT A TIME though. Y'all are not alone

[@aliasim309]

Mike Kassel ive got asthma too and i am quite active myself so what should we do

[@python9657]

hello, have you been tested for lung problems like cancer?

[@yohenson]

Thanks so much. It seems it is helpful so far. Your explanations are very supportive.

[@AskDoctorJo]

You're welcome.

[@johnandreinavasantos1204]

Thanks Doc, my upper rib pain has been removed thanks to those stretches 😇

[@AskDoctorJo]

You’re welcome.

[@briannamoreno6246]

Does anyone else have heartburn that may cause costochondritis? Usually when I feel costo symptoms it’s because I have heartburn.

[@Egirl609]

YES! It seems to be triggered by acid reflux. Also, I notice if I eat salty or sugary foods my chest wall becomes inflamed and my sternum swells 😫 It will be a year in September that I had this condition. I get maybe a day or two of relief and then BAM I feel like I am having a heart attack or panic attack but many tests have determined that it is not heart-related. It seems to mess with the nerves in my chest which radiates pain down my arms. I have bad anxiety now because of it 😞

[@FATMANYOU2]

@@Egirl609 Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. 7 Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. 1Peter 5:6-7

[@sumaiyasam9002]

@@Egirl609 mee too

[@meliimely]

Circa 1984 I’ve been having the exact problem and with anxiety because of this condition. I was noticing every time I would eat salty foods the pain would get worse.

[@Elle304]

@@Egirl609 how are you now?

[@kginmyheart]

Something very common but not many people know until they have it..

[@himanshujaiswal8192]

I am 30. Felt like a heart attack.. rushed to emergency, got EKG, xRay, blood work. Doc said hearts and lungs fine. Felt relieved. But this pain been with me since last 3 weeks. I can see some swelling on the lowest left rib. Hope you all get well. Prayers 🙏🏼

[@thomasnewton8357]

hi, hope you're feeling better, did you try these exercises? if so, how did they go as I think I have costochondritis, thanks

[@Ironladycee2]

Thank you so much for these exercise tips I have musculoskeletal pain and these exercises help me reduce the pain 😊

[@AskDoctorJo]

You’re welcome.