Very low urgency
Very common-
Pain that originates in the structures of the chest wall: ribs, rib cartilage, muscles, intercostal nerves and cervical vertebrae.
The most common cause is trauma to the chest, but it can also be due to muscular overexertion, musculoskeletal disorders or secondary to herpes zoster.
The main symptom is an insidious and persistent pain that is sharp and increases with movement, deep breathing and palpitation.
Diagnosis is based on a good history with a full clinical interview and a complete physical examination. Imaging studies may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment is based on rest and local heat together with regular painkillers or anti-inflammatory drugs.
- Christopher M Wise. Clinical evaluation of musculoskeletal chest pain. UpToDate. Nov 16, 2015.
- Stochkendahl MJ, Christensen HW. Chest pain in focal musculoskeletal disorders. Med Clin North Am 2010; 94:259.
- Yelland M, Cayley WE Jr, Vach W. An algorithm for the diagnosis and management of chest pain in primary care. Med Clin North Am 2010; 94:349.
- Bösner S, Bönisch K, Haasenritter J, et al. Chest pain in primary care: is the localization of pain diagnostically helpful in the critical evaluation of patients?--A cross sectional study. BMC Fam Pract 2013; 14:154.
- Yelland MJ. Back, chest and abdominal pain. How good are spinal signs at identifying musculoskeletal causes of back, chest or abdominal pain? Aust Fam Physician 2001; 30:908.
- David A. Morrow. Dolor torácico. Harrison. Principios de Medicina Interna. Volumen 1. 19º Edición. 98:103.
Dr. Oscar Garcia-Esquirol
Copyright© TeckelMedical 2026
