What Causes Pain Inside the Right Rib Cage?
May 07, 2021
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Liyong
Introduction
What Causes Pain Inside the Right Ribs?
This pain may result from pathological conditions affecting the ribs, such as aseptic fasciitis or costochondritis. Rib microfractures (hairline fractures) should also be considered. In cases of rib fracture, pain is typically severe and definitive diagnosis requires X-ray or 3D CT imaging. If no traumatic injury or fracture is present, right-sided rib pain is most commonly attributable to costochondritis.
Pain inside the right rib cage may result from pathological conditions affecting the ribs, such as aseptic fasciitis or costochondritis. Rib fractures cannot be ruled out either. In cases of rib fracture, pain is typically severe and diagnosis requires X-ray or 3D CT imaging. If no traumatic fracture is present, right-sided rib pain is most commonly attributable to costochondritis—a condition with multiple potential etiologies, generally associated with overuse or trauma. For instance, lifting heavy objects, sudden torso twisting, or chest compression may cause acute injury to the costochondral joint cartilage. Treatment options include physical therapy, local heat application, and anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, and analgesic medications; traditional Chinese medicine promoting blood circulation and resolving stasis may also be used. In cases of severe symptoms, surgical excision of the affected costal cartilage may be considered. Patients should also correct unhealthy lifestyle habits and poor posture—including improper sitting and sleeping positions.
