Expert: Dr. Paul Newhart - 11/10/2008

Question
Hi Dr Newhart,

Approx 4 months ago I thought I had pulled some intercostal muscles - severe pain between my ribs, worse when I breathed deeply, agony if I coughed or sneezed. When it hadnt gone away after 4 weeks I went to my doc. Xrays showed no break and she suggested I had maybe damaged a nerve. I had no problem breathing but now had a very sharp intense pain that I could actually put my fingers on - starts on my right side about a hand span below my armpit and radiates down following the ribs to my front. I went to a physio and she said not a nerve as I dont have tingling or shooting pains. I have been on all sorts of pills rested for over 3 months and I am still in a lot of pain. It aches especially in the mornings and although I am now trying to exercise again I can do very little. I constantly hold my side, the pressure seems to help. The most frustrating thing is not knowing what it is. Could I have damaged the rib cartilage and if so how long will it take to heal? Is there anything I can do to speed up the process? Any advice would be so appreciated, thanks for your time
Marie

Answer
It sounds as if you may have injured the intercostal muscles themselves, causing a "wrinkle" to form in their covering, which can be attacked by myofascial release.  It may be painful to have done, but should be able to straighten out the problem.  It may also be coupled with a rib misalignment; very common in the chiropractic world, but usually not recognized in the medical world.  A good chiropractor should be able to take care of both aspects, as well as using any necessary therapies to hasten the recovery.