04-25-2012, 10:07 AM
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Join Date: Apr 2009
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Costochondritis - Alternatives
Interesting article, help for those who may be suffering with this...
Quote:
Alternative Answers for Costochondritis
Costochondritis is an inflammation in the cartilages where the ribs join the
breastbone. Since we have to take breaths in and out of our lungs, there cannot
be a direct rigid attachment of the ribs to the breastbone.
Instead, the ribs join the breastbone (known medically as the sternum) through
flexible cartilages known as costal cartilages. But just like any cartilage,
these costal cartilages in the chest wall can get inflamed. This is
costochondritis, which literally means inflammation of the cartilage.
The key symptom is pain-not in the center portion of the chest under the
breastbone, which is more typical of heart related pain-but rather pain along
the edges of the breastbone. Many patients, and even doctors, can occasionally
be thrown off as the pain can radiate into the arms, shoulders, or across the
entire chest.
Another tip-off that this is cartilage inflammation rather than a more serious
heart ailment is the fact that the pain increases with twisting movements of the
upper body-reaching for something (especially overhead), taking in a very deep
breath, coughing, or sneezing.
The physical examination performed by a doctor shows tenderness over the
anterior chest wall area along the breastbone where the rib joins the sternum.
There may be some degree of redness over the skin and the pain is more often
than not on the left side of the chest area.
The ailment usually disappears as mysteriously as it came on, but often a low
dose of Naprosyn or another over-the-counter, anti-inflammatory will stop the
pain, along with warm, moist heat. Rare cases, such as an infection into the
cartilage, require more aggressive measures, but this is unusual.
Stress contributes to the pain because it makes the muscles tense. Other things
which hurt are lifting, pushing, pulling, sneezing, coughing, long hours of
driving or using the computer, repetitive motions and caffeine. Cold, rainy and
humid weather also make a lot of sufferers feel worse.
Stress causes the nerves to be more stimulated and tightens the muscles, both of
which trigger our pain. That pain increases quite a bit in stressful situation
versus non stress times. With stress our bodies go into their fight or flight
reaction due to the sympathetic nervous system. Ideally these situations should
be avoided but where it is not possible it is important that they be carried out
with care.
Stress management should be priority. Meditation, light exercise, reading,
writing, aromatherapy, music therapy, crystal therapy are all important
stress/emotional wranglers that should be considered.
Rest, heat or ice on affected areas should be applied.
Therapies you should consider:
*Glucosamine/Chondroitin Complex (500 mg) 3 x a day (heals cartilage) :avoid if
allergic to seafood.
*Ginger Root (inflammation)
*Evening Primrose Oil (inflammation)
*Bromelain (Pineapple enzyme 500 mg) 3 x a day on empty stomach (inflammation)
*Vitamin C with Bioflavanoids (1000 mg) 4 x a day (boosts immune system) :lessen
dosage if bowel movements are effected.
*Vitamin E (anti-oxidant, inflammation)
*Eating fatty fish, such as salmon or sardines for their Omega-3 oils
(inflammation)
*White Willow Bark (inflammation)
*Goldenseal (inflammation, cleansing, good for viral)
*Valerian Root (calming, helps sleep)
*Grape Seed Extract (antioxidant)
*St. John's Wort (300 mg) 3 x a day (good for nerve pain and depression)
*A good multivitamin 1 x a day
*B Complex 1 x a day
*Traumeel homeopathic cream applied to area as needed.
*Enteric coated aspirin (325 mg) four a day
*Hot mineral baths once or twice a day
*Take a warm shower twice a day
*Light stretches on the back/neck area after each shower; this keeps body
flexible.
*Massage every two weeks, concentrating on neck flanks and shoulder area.
*Work out the neck/shoulder/back area with light weights on a weight machine, to
strengthen.
*Acupuncture has shown very promising results for this condition.
I emphasize one point, however, about costochondritis. If you have any doubt
whatsoever about your chest pain, and even if you feel it is simply a cartilage
inflammation, get a confirmation from a doctor or even a second opinion.
https://www.peacefulmind.com
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