What causes pain in the right rib cage that radiates to the back?
May 13, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lin Yunfei
Introduction
Pain in the right rib cage accompanied by back pain may be related to physiological and pathological factors. Pathological causes include trauma, costochondritis, etc., and appropriate medications should be selected based on the underlying cause. In addition to the above-mentioned conditions, this pain may also be associated with intercostal neuralgia, pleurisy, gallstones, and other causes. It is recommended to get adequate rest and avoid unnecessary strenuous activities to prevent worsening of pain symptoms.
In general, pain in the right rib area accompanied by back pain is related to both physiological and pathological factors. Pathological causes include trauma and costochondritis. Appropriate treatment medications should be selected based on the underlying cause. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Physiological Factors
Engaging in intense physical activities such as basketball or volleyball over a long period, or performing heavy labor like lifting and carrying, can increase physical strain, leading to pain in the ribs and back. It is recommended to get adequate rest and reduce strenuous exercise. With proper recovery over time, symptoms usually resolve spontaneously.
2. Pathological Factors
a. Trauma
If the ribs or back suffer a strong impact, local muscles and mucosal tissues may be irritated, causing sharp pain at the injured site. It is advisable to promptly undergo X-ray or MRI examinations. Based on the results, closed reduction with internal fixation surgery may be performed. Adequate rest is essential during postoperative recovery.
b. Costochondritis
Chronic strain on the ligaments of the costosternal joints leads to persistent inflammation, resulting in redness, swelling, heat, and pain in the costal cartilage. Intense physical activity may worsen the pain, which can radiate to the back and scapular region. Mild cases may benefit from local massage and heat application. For more severe symptoms, medications such as compound paracetamol tablets, cefixime dispersible tablets, or cefaclor capsules should be taken according to medical advice.
Besides the above-mentioned causes, rib pain with back involvement may also be associated with intercostal neuralgia, pleuritis, gallstones, and other conditions. It is important to maintain adequate rest and avoid unnecessary strenuous activities to prevent worsening of pain.
