What is intercostal neuralgia?

There are 24 nerves in the thoracic cavity that run along the ribs. These intercostal nerves control the intercostal and abdominal wall muscles. A false movement, a severe cough or simply stress, each of these situations can cause a inflammation of one or more intercostal nerves. Movements then become complicated and painful, simple and natural gestures such as sneezing, yawning or coughing cause significant suffering.

The pain is relatively high, it quickly raises the fear of a cardiac or pulmonary accident. Immediate treatment at the first sign of a heart or lung attack can prevent the risk to the patient.

What causes intercostal neuralgia?

A shock or blow to the chest can obviously be the cause of intercostal neuralgia. A cracked or fractured rib, a torn or strained muscle, these injuries directly affect the intercostal nerves. But sometimes the identification of the cause is less obvious, especially during pregnancy. The hormonal change coupled with the increase in the rib cage can cause severe intercostal pain. Osteoarthritis can also cause damage to the nerves in the chest. Here again, a quick visit to a doctor will clearly identify the source of the pathology.

How to recognize intercostal neuralgia?

The main symptom is the pain. It is generally located along the rib and can radiate to the back. It becomes more intense during certain movements with or without effort. Innocuous reflexes become extremely painful and unpleasant :

• Cough
• Sneezing
• Yawn
• Laughing
• Speak

Palpation of the identified area is also very painful.

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How to soothe intercostal pain?

Since intercostal neuralgia is caused by inflammation of one or more intercostal nerves, there are simple and effective solutions. natural can help to relieve intercostal disturbances. Here are some of them:

• Une bouillotte Heat is a natural way to relax muscles and relieve tension. The application of heat to the painful area for a few minutes should be repeated once or twice a day.
• Des étirements Stretching: gentle and progressive stretching exercises help to reduce tension and gradually regain range of motion.
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Because the pain is relatively severe, it quickly raises fears of a cardiac or pulmonary accident. Immediate treatment at the first sign of pain can prevent the risk to patients.