Breathe Easy Again: Dr. Jordan Sudberg Explains Rib Pain and How to Manage It

Rib pain is one of those uncomfortable, often alarming sensations that can leave you wondering if something serious is wrong. It can range from a dull ache to a sharp, stabbing pain that worsens with movement or even breathing. While rib pain might stem from something as simple as a strained muscle, it can also signal deeper issues that require expert evaluation.

According to Dr. Jordan Sudberg, a renowned pain management specialist, understanding the source of your rib pain is the first step toward effective relief and recovery. “Rib pain is tricky,” says Dr. Sudberg. “It’s often overlooked or misdiagnosed because of how many different things can cause it. My job is to help patients pinpoint the source and implement a tailored plan for relief.”

Let’s explore the most common causes of rib pain, how it’s treated, and what recovery can look like under the guidance of a specialist like Dr. Sudberg.

What Causes Rib Pain?

Rib pain can originate from a variety of sources—some related to the muscles and joints, others connected to internal organs. Dr. Sudberg highlights several key culprits:

1. Musculoskeletal Strain

The most common cause of rib pain is muscle strain, often resulting from heavy lifting, poor posture, or intense physical activity. Intercostal muscles (the muscles between your ribs) can become inflamed or torn, leading to tenderness and discomfort.

2. Rib Fractures or Bruising

Direct trauma to the chest—such as from a fall, car accident, or sports injury—can fracture or bruise the ribs. “Even a small crack in a rib can cause intense pain with breathing,” notes Dr. Sudberg.

3. Costochondritis

This condition is caused by inflammation of the cartilage that connects the ribs to the sternum. It’s often mistaken for a heart issue due to the location of the pain, but it’s usually harmless and treatable.

4. Shingles

The reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus can lead to painful nerve irritation along the ribs, even before the telltale rash appears.

5. Referred Pain

Sometimes rib pain isn’t directly caused by rib structures. Issues with the lungs, gallbladder, or heart can cause discomfort that radiates to the ribs.

Diagnosing Rib Pain: The Role of the Specialist

Given the wide range of potential causes, Dr. Sudberg emphasizes the importance of professional evaluation. “You shouldn’t ignore rib pain, especially if it’s accompanied by difficulty breathing, fever, or swelling. A comprehensive exam and diagnostic tests—such as X-rays, MRI, or ultrasound—can help us understand the exact cause.”

Dr. Sudberg’s approach to diagnosis includes a full physical assessment, patient history, and sometimes nerve conduction studies to rule out neuropathic pain.

Managing Rib Pain

Treatment depends heavily on the underlying cause. However, some general principles apply across many cases.

1. Rest and Activity Modification

“Give your body time to heal,” advises Dr. Sudberg. “Avoid activities that strain the chest wall or worsen the pain.”

2. Pain Relief Techniques

Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs), ice packs, and topical pain relievers can reduce discomfort. In more severe cases, prescription medications or corticosteroid injections may be used.

3. Physical Therapy

For chronic or recurring rib pain, physical therapy can help restore mobility and strengthen surrounding muscles to prevent reinjury.

4. Breathing Exercises

Breathing deeply can be painful when ribs are injured, leading to shallow breathing and complications like pneumonia. Dr. Sudberg recommends controlled breathing exercises to maintain lung function without overexerting the ribs.

5. Interventional Pain Management

In cases where traditional therapies fail, Dr. Sudberg may offer nerve blocks or trigger point injections to target and relieve persistent rib pain.

What Does Recovery Look Like?

Recovery time varies depending on the cause and severity of the rib pain. Minor muscle strains may resolve in a few days, while fractured ribs or shingles-related pain can last several weeks. Dr. Sudberg emphasizes the importance of a patient-specific recovery plan.

“Recovery isn’t just about the pain going away—it’s about returning to normal activity without fear of reinjury,” he says. Ongoing support from a pain management expert can help ensure full healing and prevent chronic issues.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Dr. Sudberg advises seeking immediate care if rib pain is accompanied by:

• Chest tightness or pressure
  
• Difficulty breathing
  
• High fever
  
• Unexplained weight loss
  
• A visible deformity in the rib cage
  

“These symptoms may point to more serious issues that need urgent attention,” he warns.

Final Thoughts

Rib pain may be common, but it’s not something to ignore. Whether it’s a minor strain or a more serious condition, understanding the root cause is essential to finding relief. With the expert guidance of Dr. Jordan Sudberg, patients can get back to breathing easily—literally and figuratively.

If you’re dealing with persistent or unexplained rib pain, don’t wait. A consultation with a qualified pain management specialist like Dr. Sudberg could be the first step toward lasting comfort and recovery.