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What Causes Severe Pain In Left Rib Cage?

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Posted on Mon, 30 Mar 2015
Twitter Mon, 30 Mar 2015 Answered on
Twitter Mon, 20 Apr 2015 Last reviewed on
Question : I have been having pain in my left rib cage- started going to Chiro and seeing some lots of improvement. Last Wednesday, upon completing the nerve stimulator therapy, when I stood up I had an immediate pain in my lower left breast/ interior to cleavage area. Completed the adjustment and the pain continued to get worse throughout the evening- radiating in my left breast. Friday, I went back to the chiro and the adjustment helped a little but there is a specific area of my breast that is sore to the touch. It hurts with a bra on, sports bra on, off, laying down and walking (from the impact of walking). It is sore to the touch and I can see some difference based on movements of my arm, posture, etc. Today, the pain began radiating to my left shoulder down to arm/fingers and a little on my right shoulder. Hot shower helps the pain and overall I feel that the pain is not constant like it was earlier this weekend. Yesterday was the last day of my menstral cycle and I have changed thyroid dosages as of March 16th due to low levels and have begun B12 shots (2 shots to date, each week). I am thinking that this is likely a pulled chest muscle, trying to determine iif this one "spot" hurting is typical for this type of issue. I do have a routine mamamogram scheduled for April 9th but until then need to get some peace of mind.
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Answered by Dr. Dr. Praveen Tayal (1 hour later)
Brief Answer:
Muscle pain likely.

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Thanks for posting your query.
From your description, it seems to be a muscle pull or a mild tear. The pain that changes with movements of the arm is muscle related. You need to give rest to your arm and continue doing a hot compress in the area. This is not a serious issue. The pain will subside on its own with mild pain killers in next few days. In case the pain is intense or is persistent then you can consult a physician and get some muscle relaxants prescribed. Local analgesic gels can help you till then.
I hope this answers your query.
In case you have additional questions or doubts, you can forward them to me, and I shall be glad to help you out.
Wishing you good health.
Regards.
Dr. Praveen Tayal.
For future query, you can directly approach me through my profile URL http://bit.ly/Dr-Praveen-Tayal
Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D
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Answered by
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Dr. Dr. Praveen Tayal

Orthopaedic Surgeon

Practicing since :1994

Answered : 12307 Questions

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What Causes Severe Pain In Left Rib Cage?

Brief Answer: Muscle pain likely. Detailed Answer: Hello, Thanks for posting your query. From your description, it seems to be a muscle pull or a mild tear. The pain that changes with movements of the arm is muscle related. You need to give rest to your arm and continue doing a hot compress in the area. This is not a serious issue. The pain will subside on its own with mild pain killers in next few days. In case the pain is intense or is persistent then you can consult a physician and get some muscle relaxants prescribed. Local analgesic gels can help you till then. I hope this answers your query. In case you have additional questions or doubts, you can forward them to me, and I shall be glad to help you out. Wishing you good health. Regards. Dr. Praveen Tayal. For future query, you can directly approach me through my profile URL http://bit.ly/Dr-Praveen-Tayal