Are you experiencing discomfort in the centre of your chest? Sternum pain can manifest in various ways, often leading to feelings of anxiety about what might be causing it. The sternum, or breastbone, plays a vital role in protecting essential organs like the heart and lungs, making any pain in this area a concern. Pain in this area can arise from various causes, ranging from injury to inflammation. Understanding sternum pain and how to manage it can help ease anxiety and guide you toward proper treatment.
What Causes Sternum Pain?
Sternum pain can occur for several reasons. Here are six reasons why you must be dealing with this pain:
1. Costochondritis
Costochondritis is a common culprit behind sternum pain. According to StatPearls, it can lead to pain in the chest wall due to inflammation of the costal cartilage where the ribs connect to the sternum. If you have costochondritis, you might feel a sharp pain, especially when you take a deep breath or move your upper body. It can be uncomfortable, making everyday activities feel more challenging than usual.
2. Trauma or Injury
Did you know that direct trauma to the chest area, whether from a fall, a car accident, or a sports injury, can cause damage to the sternum? This type of injury can lead to bruising, fractures, or other issues, resulting in persistent pain. You might notice that the discomfort worsens with movement or even a light touch, making everyday activities challenging and uncomfortable.
Also Read: Non-Heart-Related Chest Pain: Expert Lists 6 Causes And How to Address Them
3. Muscle Strain
Overexertion or sudden movements can put a strain on the muscles around the sternum, resulting in discomfort. This type of pain is often seen in athletes or anyone engaged in activities that require repetitive motions of the chest or arms. Whether you're lifting weights, playing a sport, or even just doing household chores, it's easy to overdo it and feel the effects later.
4. Sternoclavicular Joint Issues
The sternoclavicular joint, located where the sternum meets the collarbone, can become dislocated or injured, leading to discomfort. This is often seen in people who engage in heavy lifting or suffer from arthritis in the joint. According to StatPearls, people with sternum pain from a sternoclavicular joint injury may experience mild upper chest pain or swelling, discomfort when moving the shoulder, and popping or clicking sounds around the joint.
5. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
GERD, or acid reflux, is another potential cause of sternum pain. When stomach acid backs up into the oesophagus, it can cause a burning sensation in the chest that mimics sternum pain.
6. Heart-Related Issues
Though sternum pain is often unrelated to the heart, in some cases, it can indicate a more serious underlying heart condition, such as angina or a heart attack. If the pain is accompanied by other symptoms like shortness of breath, nausea, or sweating, it’s important to seek immediate medical attention.
Symptoms of Sternum Pain
The symptoms of sternum pain can differ based on the underlying cause. Some common indications include:
- Intense, aching, or burning sensations in the centre of the chest
- Discomfort that intensifies with movement, deep breaths, or coughing
- Sensitivity in the chest area when touched
- Discomfort that extends to the shoulders or back
If you encounter sudden, severe pain accompanied by symptoms like difficulty breathing or dizziness, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical attention, as these may indicate a serious health issue.
Also Read: Complexities of Chest Pain: Expert Explains The Nature Of Cause And Connection With Stress
How to Manage Sternum Pain
Managing sternum pain depends largely on the cause. Here are some ways to alleviate the discomfort:
1. Rest and Avoid Strain
If your sternum pain is caused by muscle strain, injury, or costochondritis, one of the most important things you can do is rest. You should avoid activities that strain the chest, such as heavy lifting or strenuous exercise, to allow the body to heal.
2. Apply Heat or Cold Therapy
Applying heat or cold compresses to the affected area can help reduce pain and inflammation. Use an ice pack for the first few days to reduce swelling, and then switch to heat to relax the muscles and ease discomfort.
3. Gentle Stretching and Strengthening Exercises
In cases of muscle strain or costochondritis, gentle stretching and strengthening exercises can help improve flexibility and reduce tension around the sternum. However, it's important to avoid pushing yourself too hard and causing further injury.
4. Improve Posture
Poor posture can contribute to sternum pain, especially if you slouch or hunch over for long periods. Hence, focus on sitting and standing with your shoulders back and chest open to reduce pressure on the sternum. A 2021 case study revealed that excessive sitting and poor posture led one individual to experience pain in the neck, upper back, and sternum regions.
5. Dietary Changes for GERD
If your sternum pain is linked to GERD, adjusting your diet can make a significant difference. Try steering clear of foods that can trigger acid reflux, like spicy dishes, fatty foods, caffeine, and alcohol. Opting for smaller meals and waiting before lying down after eating can also help alleviate your symptoms.
7. Physical Therapy
For more persistent or severe cases of sternum pain, working with a physical therapist can help. They can guide you through exercises and stretches to strengthen the muscles around your chest and improve posture.
8. Medical Treatments
In more serious cases, such as fractures, joint dislocations, or heart-related issues, medical intervention may be required. Your doctor may recommend imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs to determine the exact cause of the pain and create a tailored treatment plan.
[Disclaimer: This article contains information for informational purposes only, hence, we advise you to consult your own professional if you are dealing with any health issues to avoid complications.]