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  • Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners

    How long will it take for inflammation of sternum cartilage to resolve?

    Related Topics
    Back & Neck Pain Pain
    I am suffering with pain in my chest and feels very tight, my upper back isalso uncomfortable. I was told my intercostal cartilage is inflamed.

    What do I do to treat it?
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    Dr Ryan Hislop

    Chiropractor

    Ryan Hislop is the Clinical Director at the Orange Chiropractic Health and Wellness Centre. As an experienced and evidence-based diagnostician, Ryan works largely by medical … View Profile

    Costochondritis is often self-limited to around 6 weeks although it can be a recurring condition that can appear to have little or no signs of onset.

    Treatment options are quite limited and usually involve a combination of rest, analgesics, or anti-inflammatory medications. 

    Looking at both the tightness in the upper back and chest; dysfunction arising from the thoracic spine and ribs can also create increases forces for the are in your chest to deal with and can create pain. If it doesn't rectify itself within 6 weeks and simple analgesics do not work, a qualified chiropractor will be a good option.

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    Dr James Gillard

    Osteopath

    James is passionate about osteopathy, it’s philosophy and works with facilitating the bodies innate drive for health and balance. He enjoys teaching patients about how … View Profile

    Hi,

    I agree with Ryan, the allopathic treatment for this complaint is limited. Clinically I find that improving the motion through the ribs and the mid back along with loosening intercostal muscles (between the ribs), can help improve lymphatic and venous return and aid in the reducing the inflammatory response. With treatment, I find these issues often resolve with 3-4 weeks.

    Now I'm certainly biased, but I would advocate osteopathic treatment. But manual therapy is effective for this issue.

    Good luck!

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