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Real members of MyFibroTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

rib pain

A MyFibroTeam Member asked a question 💭
Liverpool, UK

could anyone give me any tips to ease chronic rib pain feels like a big bruise cant breath in agony to touch I have tried heat pads pain killers even rubbed emu oil but nothing seams to help at the moment would be grateful for any tips

June 4, 2015
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Answer Summary

Members responded to someone experiencing severe rib pain by sharing their own experiences with costochondritis, a painful inflammation of the... Read more

Members responded to someone experiencing severe rib pain by sharing their own experiences with costochondritis, a painful inflammation of the ribs, sternum, and collarbone commonly associated with fibromyalgia, with several noting how frightening the chest pain can be initially. Many community members described practical relief strategies including trying cold packs instead of heat, taking Epsom salt baths, using a TENS machine for pain management, and taking Tylenol for Arthritis during flares. A recurring theme was the diagnostic challenge of rib pain in fibromyalgia, as doctors often check for conditions like shingles or heart problems first, and members emphasized the importance of seeing a GP for proper evaluation while offering warm support and understanding for navigating the unpredictable nature of chronic pain.

A MyFibroTeam Member

My doctor checked me for shingles the last time I had a flare up in the lower left back quadrant of the rib cage. Negative. Fibromyalgia is so baffling at times. It masks many other illnesses and conditions and can give one false symptoms

June 4, 2015
A MyFibroTeam Member

I had Costochondritis many years ago in the upper left rib cage and breast cavity. I had two cortisone shots. The Fibro doctor said this was secondary to Fibromyalgia.

June 4, 2015
A MyFibroTeam Member

Hi @A MyFibroTeam Member! I would have to agree with Vanessa that it sounds a lot like like costochondritis which goes along with fibro. Yes, I have a tens machine that I LOVE. I use it all the time for lots of different types of pain. It works well for some and not so well for others though. I got a 4 module machine that has TENS, interferential, microstimulation, and EMS. It was a little more expeinsive, but it has paid for itself several times over.

June 4, 2015
A MyFibroTeam Member

It sounds like coshondritis that begins in the ribs as mine also started left side. You any pain in your sterum that's were I get my pain the worst...its inflammation of the ribs that causes it...a fall or even flu as you can hurt yourself coughing x

June 4, 2015
A MyFibroTeam Member

For some people cold packs work better than heat. You will know within minutes of trying it if it seems to help. Have you tried an epsom salt soak in the bath? TENS treatments might help too if you have access to a machine.

June 4, 2015

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