Costochondritis Treatments and Remedies

Costochondritis – also known as chest wall pain – is an acute inflammation of the costal cartilage. The costal cartilage is located near the sternum. When the costal cartilage is inflamed, it causes chest pain. This condition is common among children and teenagers.

Costochondritis has no known cause. Some doctors believe viral or bacterial infections could trigger pain in the chest. Others claim that increased activity of the arms could also cause costochondritis. Costochondritis is relatively harmless. Chest pain from costochondritis will go away on its own. But it’s a recurring condition with no known trigger.

Costochondritis is typically diagnosed by touch or palpitation. Symptoms of costochondritis include a sharp pain in the front chest wall. The pain will spread to the back or abdomen. The rib joints and breastbone become tender and inflamed. The pain decreases when you stop all movements or you breathe quietly.

Treating Costochondritis

If you are diagnosed with costochondritis, you will be advised to apply hot or cold compress on the affected area. This will relieve chest pain temporarily. You will be given anti-inflammatory medication including over the counter painkillers. Patients afflicted with this condition is also advised to minimize physical activities.

Certain types of herbal remedies may help bring down cartilage inflammation. These herbs include:

Noni Fruit

Juicing noni fruit helps prevent inflammation. That’s because the noni fruit is packed with natural painkillers. What makes noni fruit ideal as a treatment for costochondritis is it doesn’t have any side effects. You can consume noni fruit juice all you want without getting annoying symptoms. In one study, patients suffering from costochondritis were given noni fruit juice for several days. The participants claim that the juice eliminated 88% of chest pain.

In a separate study conducted by researchers at the Laboratory of Pharmacognosy of the University of Metz in France found that noni juice is 75% as effective in managing pain as morphine sulfate. And unlike morphine, noni juice is not addictive at all.

Ginseng

Ginseng is a staple in most health food stores for a reason. It helps energize the body and prevents infections. It contains anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. These compounds prevent inflammation and irritation. Since costochondritis is triggered by cartilage inflammation, taking ginseng will prevent symptoms associated with the condition.

Arnica

Arnica works just like ginseng. It will effectively bring down inflammation and infections. The herb relieves pain, reduces swelling and heals the ligaments. Arnica treats a wide range of musculoskeletal disorders. It contains flavonoids and essential oils that heal soft tissues, cartilage, muscles, and joints.

Serrapeptase

Serrapeptase is also efficient in managing pain! This herb has been used as clinical treatment for various conditions in Europe and Asia. Some experts believe that serrapeptase’s efficacy is comparable to salicylates, ibuprofen, and the more potent NSAIDs.

But unlike any of these drugs, serrapeptase does not cause any side effects. It will not cause gastrointestinal side effects or any other symptoms. The herb contains physiologic agent with no inhibitory effects on prostaglandins. It’s naturally occurring and effective in treating costochondritis!