Costocondritis

Costochondritis Physiotherapy in Singapore

Costochondritis, sometimes referred to as Tietze’s syndrome, is an inflammation of the cartilage that connects the ribs to the breastbone (sternum). This cartilage forms part of the costosternal joints, which allow the rib cage to expand and contract during breathing.

When these joints become inflamed, they can cause localized chest pain and tenderness, particularly during movement, deep breathing, or pressure on the chest wall.

Although the condition can cause discomfort, it is usually benign and treatable, especially with early physiotherapy intervention.

At ACE PHYSIO SPORTS, located on East Coast Road in Singapore, our physiotherapists provide personalised treatment programmes to help relieve chest pain, restore normal rib movement, and prevent recurrence.

What Causes Costochondritis?

Costochondritis can occur due to direct trauma, repetitive strain, or overuse of the chest wall and rib joints.

Common causes include:

Direct Impact to the Chest

A direct blow to the chest can irritate the costosternal joints. This often occurs in contact sports such as rugby, football, or martial arts, or during impacts in ball sports.

Repetitive Upper Body Movements

Repeated movements involving trunk rotation or upper body strain can place stress on the rib joints.

Examples include:

• Rowing
• Heavy lifting
• Repetitive twisting movements
• Certain gym exercises

Overuse or Mechanical Stress

Poor posture, prolonged sitting, or excessive physical activity may lead to gradual irritation of the rib cartilage.

How Does Costochondritis Feel?

Costochondritis typically causes central or side chest pain that worsens with certain movements.

The pain may feel:

• Sharp or stabbing
• Aching or pressure-like
• Localised near the sternum

The discomfort may increase with:

• Deep breathing
• Coughing or sneezing
• Upper body movements
• Pressing on the chest wall

In many cases, touching the affected rib joint can reproduce the pain.

Symptoms of Costochondritis

Symptoms may vary in severity depending on the level of inflammation in the rib joints.

Common symptoms include:

• Sharp or aching pain in the front of the chest
• Pain that worsens with deep breathing or coughing
• Pain during upper body movement or physical activity
• Tenderness near the ribs where they meet the sternum
• Tightness or pressure in the chest
• Pain that may radiate to the back or upper abdomen
• Discomfort when lying down or changing position
• Pain usually affecting one side of the chest, though both sides may occasionally be involved

Although chest pain can be alarming, costochondritis is usually musculoskeletal in origin.

What Should You Do If You Have Costochondritis?

If you suspect you have costochondritis, it is important to seek professional assessment.

A physiotherapist can:

• Confirm the diagnosis
• Identify contributing factors such as posture or overuse
• Develop a personalised treatment programme

Early physiotherapy treatment can help reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and prevent symptoms from becoming chronic.

Physiotherapy Treatment for Costochondritis

Physiotherapy is highly effective for managing costochondritis by addressing the underlying mechanical causes of rib joint irritation.

At ACE PHYSIO SPORTS, treatment programmes are tailored to your symptoms and lifestyle.

Treatment may include:

Manual Therapy

Manual therapy techniques help improve mobility in the thoracic spine and rib joints.

Postural Correction

Exercises to improve posture help reduce strain on the chest wall and rib cage.

Breathing Exercises

Breathing techniques improve rib cage movement and reduce muscle tension in the chest.

Stretching Exercises

Stretching tight muscles in the chest, shoulders, and upper back helps restore mobility.

Strengthening Exercises

Strengthening the core and upper back muscles improves stability and reduces stress on the rib joints.

Electrotherapy

Therapeutic modalities such as ultrasound therapy or TENS may help reduce pain and inflammation.

Activity Modification

Advice on modifying daily activities or sports helps prevent symptom aggravation.

What Should You Avoid With Costochondritis?

If you have costochondritis, it is important to avoid activities that increase pain or irritation.

These include:

• Heavy lifting
• High-impact upper body exercise
• Activities involving repetitive twisting
• Ignoring persistent chest pain

Continuing aggravating activities can delay recovery.

Long-Term Outlook for Costochondritis

Costochondritis usually does not cause long-term complications, especially when treated early.

Most individuals recover within several weeks to a few months, depending on the severity of inflammation.

Physiotherapy plays an important role in:

• Reducing pain
• Restoring rib movement
• Improving posture and muscle balance
• Preventing recurrence

Costochondritis Treatment at ACE PHIO SPORTS

At ACE PHYSIO SPORTS, our physiotherapists specialise in treating chest wall pain, spinal conditions, and sports-related injuries.

Our personalised rehabilitation programmes aim to:

• Reduce chest pain and inflammation
• Restore rib and thoracic spine mobility
• Improve posture and breathing mechanics
• Strengthen supporting muscles
• Support safe return to daily activities and sport

Our clinic is conveniently located on East Coast Road in Singapore, serving patients from Katong, Marine Parade, and surrounding areas.

To arrange an appointment:

📞 Call +65 81535374 🌐 Visit acephysiosport.com