Costochondritis pain?

[Starfish125]

I've had a niggling pain on the left side of my ribs, mainly under the left breast but radiates to the back too. Had it for 4 weeks then decided to get it checked after Dr Google mentioned enlarged spleen. GP had a feel and said spleen felt fine and couldn't feel any lumps or bumps but the fact that the pain was only apparent when pressing on my actual ribs made her think it's costochondritis. Was told to take paracetamol as I'm currently BF my baby. I have taken paracetamol and also used deep heat the last few weeks but it doesn't really do anything? I also try and have a hot bath when husband gets back from work so he can tend to the baby, doesn't really help only short term relief. Is there any miracle cream/exercise/pill that anyone can suggest? Tia

I’ve had costochondritis - it came on suddenly and made me see stars! The initial WTF pain subsided somewhat over a few days and then it remained very painful for weeks, so I feel for you! I just took standard pain relief, had regular warm baths and sulked a lot. I’m sorry to not be able to recommend anything else. I hope you feel better soon.

There are a few easy exercises by physios on YouTube to help this pain. They worked for my DP when they had it.

I had this a good few years ago. I ended up being referred to a physio as it just wouldn't go, and that physio was left scratching his head after a number of weeks about why he couldn't get rid of it too. Ended up calling his colleague in, who said he'd seen a case like mine once before. The only way to help was a manual separation of the ribs. He jammed his fingers between my ribs and pulled them back down HARD. The relief was instant and permanent. I'm forever grateful!

If home methods aren't working for you, ask to be referred to a physio.