How can I help my child with costochondritis?

How can I help my child with costochondritis?

Applying a warm compress or a heating pad (set on low) to the sore area also may give some relief. Until feeling better, your child should get plenty of rest and avoid activities that make the pain worse.

Is costochondritis a growing pain?

People will use the term growing pains and I think this usually represents costochondritis or inflammation of the joints between the ribs and the breastbone. This usually hurts to push on the chest. As this is an inflammation, using anti-inflammatory medications such as Motrin or Aleve can help.

Should you stretch costochondritis?

The best treatment for chest pain from costochondritis is active in nature. Postural correction, breathing exercises, and stretches can help decrease your pain and improve your mobility.

What causes costochondritis in a child?

Costochondritis often follows a viral illness that causes the child to cough a lot. It can also be linked to carrying a heavy school bag. It may also follow an injury, such as a fall or car accident. Costochondritis pain may last for weeks, but eventually goes away on its own.

What do I do if my child complains about chest pain?

Mild Chest Pain in Children “Start with your pediatrician,” says Ravekes. “They’ll evaluate the possibility of cardiac and non-cardiac chest pain causes.” Your child’s pediatrician may refer them to a pediatric cardiologist if they find: A heart murmur (abnormal sounds of blood flow between heartbeats)

What stretches help costochondritis?

Pectoral Corner Stretch Place both arms up, with your forearms resting against the wall on each side of the corner. Your hands, forearms, and elbows should be in contact with the wall. Slowly lean into the corner, stretching the muscles in the front of your chest. Hold the stretch for 15 to 30 seconds, and then relax.

Does massage help costochondritis?

Massage is indicated. However, not recommend in the chest area during the acute phase. Due to the enflamed cartilage, any pressure or increased circulation to those joints will result in pain and prolonged recovery.

Why does my daughter’s chest hurt?

Most kids will complain of chest pain sometime between age 7 and their teenage years, but thankfully, it will be caused by an underlying heart condition in less than 1% of them. More frequently it is related to a viral illness, stress, or most commonly, musculoskeletal pain.

Is chest pain normal for a child?

Kids can get chest pain too — even sudden, sharp pain that takes their breath away. While it may be scary, brief episodes of chest pain usually aren’t caused by the heart or lungs, says pediatric cardiologist Kenneth Zahka, MD.

Is Deep heat good for costochondritis?

Heat: Heat helps decrease pain in some patients. Apply heat on the area for 20 to 30 minutes every 2 hours for as many days as directed. Ice: Ice helps decrease swelling and pain. Ice may also help prevent tissue damage.

Is it normal for 12 year olds to have chest pains?