Chest pain is a symptom that should never be ignored. It may feel sharp, dull, burning, tight, or like pressure in the chest. While some causes are musculoskeletal and treatable with physiotherapy, others may indicate serious heart or lung conditions that require immediate medical attention.
Chest pain may present as:
• Tightness or pressure in the center of the chest
• Sharp pain that worsens with movement or breathing
• Burning sensation
• Pain spreading to the shoulder, arm, neck, or jaw
• Pain associated with shortness of breath
The characteristics of the pain often help determine its cause.
1. Musculoskeletal Causes
• Muscle strain
• Rib joint dysfunction
• Poor posture
• Costochondritis (inflammation of rib cartilage)
• Thoracic spine dysfunction
This type of pain often worsens with movement, deep breathing, or pressing on the area.
2. Cardiac Causes (Medical Emergency)
• Angina
• Heart attack
Symptoms may include pressure-like pain, sweating, nausea, dizziness, or pain radiating to the left arm or jaw.
3. Respiratory Causes
• Lung infection
• Pleurisy
• Pulmonary embolism
Pain may worsen with breathing or coughing.
4. Gastrointestinal Causes
• Acid reflux (GERD)
• Esophageal spasm
Often described as burning pain behind the breastbone.
Call emergency services immediately if chest pain is accompanied by:
• Shortness of breath
• Cold sweats
• Nausea or vomiting
• Dizziness or fainting
• Pain spreading to arm, neck, jaw, or back
• Sudden severe chest pressure
These may indicate a life-threatening condition.
Chest pain is more likely musculoskeletal if it:
• Changes with posture
• Increases with arm or trunk movement
• Is tender when pressing on the chest wall
• Improves with rest or stretching
Even so, medical evaluation is recommended before starting treatment.
If serious medical causes have been ruled out, physiotherapy can effectively manage musculoskeletal chest pain.
Assessment Includes:
• Postural evaluation
• Rib and thoracic spine mobility
• Muscle strength and flexibility
• Breathing pattern assessment
1. Manual Therapy
Mobilization of the thoracic spine and rib joints.
2. Postural Correction
Ergonomic advice and posture retraining.
3. Therapeutic Exercise
• Stretching tight chest muscles
• Strengthening upper back muscles
• Core stabilization
4. Breathing Techniques
To improve rib expansion and reduce muscle tension.
Chest pain can have many causes. Proper screening ensures safety while allowing appropriate rehabilitation for musculoskeletal conditions.
At Sukumvit Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation Center, patient safety is our priority. Our experienced team will assess your symptoms thoroughly and guide you toward the most appropriate care.
If you are experiencing chest pain, consult a healthcare professional promptly for evaluation.
