Costochondritis for 3 years?!

Bones, joints and muscles
1

For the last 3 years I have been suffering with middle back and upper rib cage ache and discomfort rather than pain. It always worse in the morning and usually eases as the day goes on. I have seen a physiotherapist which did not work. 

However Saturday I had to go to A&E as I was suffering with chest pain, however I do not think this is related. They said it was probably costochondritis as all other tests came back negative. But since Saturday I haven't had any chest pain. 

I've used deep heat and ibruprofen neither of which helps. I have also been trying exercises that are supposed to strengthen the back and ease costochondritis but this has actually made me it a lot worse for me and I'm feeling uncomfortable all the time. 

Has anyone else had this or any advice?

2

Have you tried a tens machine?

​Magnesium can help to relax muscles but I would strongly recommend that you get your Vitamin D level, calcium, parathyroid hormone , phosphate leves checked as well. u nay have the start if osteoporosis and this can be treated.

​xxx

3

I haven't tried a tens machine but I will look into that. 

I'm not sure whether they checked my levels of the following you said when I went to A&E I'll have to have a GP look at it. 

Thank you for the advice, really appreciate it. 

Xxx

4

It could be so many things but I'm assuming that by now you've ruled out problems with your gall bladder or liver.

Since it hurts the most in the morning I wonder if it's not a muscular issue. Nerves can cause pain that can radiate out to other places. So it could be that too.

Regardless I think your treating it correctly. Just be careful on the use of ibuprofen. I took it every day for a year and ended up with GERD.

5

Thank you for your reply. They have checked my liver function and gall bladder and they came back normal. I think I may go back and see the GP maybe a referral to a specialist of some sort. 

Thanks 

6

katie

Can you tolerate fatty foods?

Th dr can order an ultra sound scan of your abdomen to check for gall bladder disease. Are your stools normal in colour, size etc? Sorry for intrusive questions.