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What causes sternum pain and how should it be managed?

Sep 07, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Chen Jian
Introduction
In general, chest pain may be caused by overexertion, poor posture, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), costochondritis, angina pectoris, or other reasons. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. In daily life, get adequate rest and avoid excessive fatigue to allow the body sufficient recovery time; maintain proper posture and avoid prolonged低头 or bending over to reduce pressure on the sternum.

Under normal circumstances, sternum pain may be caused by overexertion, poor posture, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), costochondritis, angina pectoris, and other reasons. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. Specific analysis is as follows:

1. Overexertion

If the muscles around the sternum are used excessively or for prolonged periods—such as during intense exercise or repetitive physical labor—muscle fatigue and tension may develop, leading to sternal pain. It is important to rest appropriately and avoid overexertion. Physical therapies such as heat application and massage may help improve blood circulation and relax the muscles.

2. Poor Posture

Maintaining incorrect posture for extended periods, such as slouching with a hunched back, can increase pressure on the sternum and surrounding tissues, potentially causing pain. It is advisable to correct sitting and standing postures and maintain proper body alignment. Stretching exercises can also help relieve muscle tension.

3. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

GERD is usually caused by structural or functional abnormalities in the anti-reflux barrier, combined with reduced esophageal clearance of refluxed material. Stomach acid flowing back into the esophagus can damage the esophageal mucosa, potentially causing inflammation and sternal pain. Symptoms may also include heartburn and belching. Patients can take medications such as omeprazole enteric-coated capsules, lansoprazole tablets, or mosapride citrate dispersible tablets under medical guidance.

4. Costochondritis

Costochondritis is typically caused by chest trauma, infection, or abnormalities in immune or endocrine function. Inflammation of the cartilage connecting the ribs to the sternum may cause sternal pain, often accompanied by redness, swelling, and tenderness. Patients may take medications such as diclofenac sodium sustained-release tablets, ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, or mecobalamin tablets as directed by a physician.

5. Angina Pectoris

Angina pectoris results from narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries, which may lead to myocardial ischemia and hypoxia, causing pain behind the sternum. Patients may also experience symptoms such as sweating and nausea. Medications such as quick-acting cardiac pills, musk cardiac pills, or nitroglycerin tablets may be used under medical supervision.

In daily life, it is important to get adequate rest and avoid overexertion, allowing the body sufficient recovery time. Maintaining correct posture and avoiding prolonged head-down positions or bending over can help reduce pressure on the sternum.

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