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What does it mean when there is pain three fingers' width below the armpit?

Sep 29, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Lei
Introduction
The armpit usually refers to the axilla. In general, the main causes of pain three fingers' width below the armpit include local muscle strain, friction or irritation from clothing, intercostal neuralgia, chest wall fasciitis, and mammary gland hyperplasia. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment at a正规 hospital. In daily life, maintain good posture and avoid prolonged sitting or bending over.

The armpit usually refers to the axilla. In general, the main causes of pain under the armpit—approximately three fingers' width below—are local muscle strain, clothing friction, intercostal neuralgia, chest wall fasciitis, and mammary gland hyperplasia. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment at a qualified hospital. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Local Muscle Strain

Frequent arm lifting, intense exercise, or heavy lifting in recent days may overstretch the chest wall muscles beneath the armpit, causing pain. Reducing arm-lifting movements, avoiding strenuous activities, and allowing the affected muscles adequate rest can help. Gently massaging the painful area for 10–15 minutes each time may also relieve muscle tension.

2. Clothing Friction Irritation

Wearing clothes made of coarse or overly tight materials can cause prolonged friction against the skin and subcutaneous tissues under the armpit, leading to localized pain. Switching to loose, soft cotton clothing helps avoid irritating the affected area. Applying a gentle moisturizer locally may also protect the skin barrier.

3. Intercostal Neuralgia

Intercostal neuralgia caused by viral infection or exposure to cold can inflame the intercostal nerves corresponding to the area beneath the armpit, resulting in sharp, stabbing, or dull pain. Under medical guidance, medications such as mecobalamin tablets, vitamin B1 tablets, or ibuprofen sustained-release capsules may be taken. Keep the body warm, avoid cold exposure, and minimize actions that strain the nerves, such as severe coughing.

4. Chest Wall Fasciitis

Poor posture or chronic fatigue may lead to aseptic inflammation in the chest wall fascia beneath the armpit, causing pain that worsens with movement. Under medical supervision, medications such as celecoxib capsules, diclofenac sodium sustained-release tablets, or eperisone hydrochloride tablets may be used. Applying local heat therapy for 20 minutes per session can also improve blood circulation in the affected area.

5. Mammary Gland Hyperplasia

Hormonal fluctuations in women may lead to mammary gland hyperplasia. The proliferated tissue may pull on or irritate surrounding nerves, causing radiating pain under the armpit (about three finger-widths down). Under medical guidance, medications such as Rupixiao tablets, Xiaoyao pills, or tamoxifen citrate tablets may be prescribed. Maintaining emotional stability, avoiding late nights, and undergoing regular breast examinations are also important.

In daily life, maintain good posture and avoid prolonged sitting or bending; wear comfortable clothing to reduce local friction; follow a regular sleep schedule and avoid excessive fatigue; women should perform regular breast self-examinations and pay attention to any abnormalities in the breast and surrounding armpit areas. Seek prompt medical attention if pain persists or fails to improve.

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