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Best Ways to Treat Costochondritis

Best Ways to Treat Costochondritis
Best Ways to Treat Costochondritis

Costochondritis is a painful condition that affects the cartilage that connects the ribs to the breastbone. The condition can cause extreme discomfort and can limit your ability to perform daily activities. If you are suffering from this condition you are not alone. Millions of people worldwide are affected by this condition. Fortunately, there are many viable treatment options that can help alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with the condition, overall, fixing costochondritis. In this post, we will discuss some of the best ways to treat costochondritis including chiropractic care and physiotherapy.

Chiropractic Care: One of the most effective treatments for costochondritis is chiropractic care. Chiropractors use spinal manipulation techniques to realign the vertebrae which can help to relieve the pressure on the affected area. A chiropractor can also recommend a series of exercises that can help to strengthen the muscles in the chest and back, which can help to reduce the risk of future flare-ups. Be sure to choose a licensed and experienced chiropractor for best results.

Physiotherapy: Another effective treatment for costochondritis is physiotherapy. A physiotherapist can create a customized exercise program that can help to alleviate your symptoms. The exercises recommended by a physiotherapist can help to improve your posture, increase your range of motion and reduce the pain associated with costochondritis. In addition, a physiotherapist can recommend other treatments such as hot or cold treatment, and massage.

Medications: Your doctor may prescribe medication to help alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with costochondritis. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen, naproxen, and acetaminophen can help to alleviate the pain and reduce inflammation. If over-the-counter medications are not effective, your doctor may prescribe stronger pain medications.

Lifestyle Changes: Certain lifestyle changes can help to reduce the risk of costochondritis flare-ups. If you are overweight, losing weight can help to alleviate the pressure on your chest and reduce the risk of future flare-ups. It’s also important to avoid activities that can aggravate your symptoms, such as lifting heavy objects or engaging in strenuous exercise.

Stress Management: Stress can be a significant factor in the development of costochondritis. Practices such as meditation, relaxation techniques, and deep breathing exercises can all help to reduce stress levels. If you find that stress is a significant factor in your condition, consider seeking professional counseling or psychotherapy.

Costochondritis can be a challenging condition to deal with, but there are many effective treatments available. With the help of these practitioners, the costochondritis healing time can be shortened. Chiropractic care and physiotherapy can help to alleviate pain and reduce the risk of future flare-ups, while lifestyle changes and stress management can also be significant factors in treating this condition. If you are suffering from costochondritis, don’t hesitate to seek treatment from a qualified and licensed healthcare provider. They can help you develop a comprehensive treatment plan that will help you manage your symptoms and live a pain-free life.

About the Author

Jonathan Tran, MScPT is a physiotherapist at CARESPACE Westmount East. He helps clients improve their health through personalized, evidence-based care. If you’re looking for physiotherapy in Kitchener, CARESPACE offers coordinated support designed to help you be your best.