Why does the side of my rib cage hurt after doing push-ups, and what should I do about it?
Jun 05, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lin Yunfei
Introduction
Pain on the side of the ribs after doing push-ups may be caused by physiological factors, and symptoms can be relieved with local heat application. It could also result from pathological causes such as trauma or costochondritis, which should be managed through immobilization and medication. Besides these factors, pain might also be due to intercostal neuralgia, rib fractures, or bone tumors.
Pain on the side of the ribs after doing push-ups may be due to physiological factors, and symptoms can be relieved by applying local heat therapy. It could also result from pathological causes such as trauma or costochondritis, which should be managed through immobilization and medication. Detailed analysis is as follows:
I. Physiological Factors
If one has not exercised for a prolonged period and suddenly performs push-ups, lactic acid may accumulate on the side of the ribs, leading to pain. Applying local heat therapy can help alleviate these symptoms.
II. Pathological Factors
1. Trauma
Performing push-ups with excessive intensity may cause injury to the lateral aspect of the ribs, resulting in localized pain. Timely immobilization is recommended to help relieve discomfort.
2. Costochondritis
This is an inflammation primarily affecting the costal cartilage. Performing push-ups may exacerbate ligament damage at the costosternal joint and intensify the inflammatory response, causing pain on the side of the ribs. Treatment may include medications such as diclofenac sodium sustained-release tablets, ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, or dexamethasone acetate tablets, used under medical guidance.
In addition to the above factors, pain may also be caused by intercostal neuralgia, rib fractures, or bone tumors. If discomfort occurs, it is important to seek timely medical evaluation and proper treatment at a hospital to avoid delaying diagnosis and management.
