Be Alert to These Four Causes of Distending Pain in Both Sides of the Ribs

There is no saying of "be alert to four causes of bilateral rib distension and pain." Bilateral rib distension and pain may be caused by strenuous exercise, poor posture, emotional fluctuations, costochondritis, pleurisy, and other factors. Management should be based on specific circumstances. It is recommended to visit a hospital promptly and follow medical advice for treatment.

1. Strenuous Exercise: Sudden high-intensity exercises such as chest expansion and push-ups can place excessive strain on the intercostal muscles, easily causing strains and resulting in bilateral rib distension and pain. Exercise should be conducted progressively, with a 10-15 minute warm-up before exercise, such as wrist and ankle movements, lunges, and leg stretches, followed by appropriate stretching and relaxation after exercise.

2. Poor Posture: Long-term slouching or hunching over a desk can keep the intercostal muscles in a tense state, impeding blood circulation and causing bilateral rib distension and pain. It is important to maintain proper posture with a straight back and raised head. Every hour of sitting should be followed by 5-10 minutes of activity, stretching the body and relaxing the muscles.

3. Emotional Fluctuations: Prolonged anxiety or anger can lead to liver qi stagnation and blocked meridians, resulting in distension and pain in the bilateral rib area. Participation in outdoor activities such as walking and mountain climbing can help relieve stress and soothe emotions. Practicing deep breathing exercises for 10-15 minutes each morning, afternoon, and evening can also help regulate breathing and relax the mind and body.

4. Costochondritis: Viral infections or chronic strain may cause inflammation of the costal cartilage. Inflammatory stimulation of surrounding nerves can lead to localized pain and swelling in the rib area, with increased pain during pressure or movement. Under a doctor's guidance, patients may use medications such as ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, diclofenac sodium enteric-coated tablets, and mecobalamin tablets to reduce inflammation and pain and provide nerve nourishment to improve symptoms.

5. Pleurisy: Pathogens such as bacteria and viruses invading the pleura may cause inflammation. Inflammatory factors stimulating the pleura may result in bilateral rib distension and pain, often accompanied by chest pain, cough, fever, and other symptoms. It is recommended to use medications such as amoxicillin capsules, cefixime dispersible tablets, and aspirin enteric-coated tablets under medical guidance to alleviate symptoms.

If distension and pain have already occurred, apply a warm towel or hot water bag to the affected area for 15-20 minutes each time, 3-4 times daily, to promote blood circulation and relieve discomfort.

References:

[1] Jiao Xiaopeng, Wang Jianqiang. Case Report of Moxibustion Combined with Massage in the Treatment of Nonspecific Costochondritis [J]. Journal of Clinical Research in Traditional Chinese Medicine, 2023, 15(13): 82-85.

[2] Liu Huijun, Ding Yanfang, Li Chunjing, et al. Combined Detection of IGRA, TB-Ab, and Pleural Effusion ADA in the Diagnosis of Etiological Negative Tuberculous Pleurisy [J]. Laboratory Medicine, 2025, 40(02): 182-185.