Region: Chest
Tietze syndrome happens when the cartilage connecting your ribs to your breastbone becomes inflamed and swollen. This causes chest pain along with visible swelling.
What is Tietze Syndrome?
Tietze syndrome happens when the cartilage connecting your ribs to your breastbone becomes inflamed and swollen. This causes chest pain along with visible swelling.
Symptoms
- Chest pain
- Swelling near the breastbone
- Tenderness to touch
- Pain with movement
- Pain with breathing
What does Tietze Syndrome feel like?
- Pain near the center of the chest
- A sore or aching feeling
- Pain when touching the area
- Pain with breathing or movement
What are common causes of Tietze Syndrome?
- Repetitive upper body movement
- Overuse during activity
- Coughing or strain
- Heavy lifting
Self check
- Is the pain near the center of your chest?
- Is there visible swelling in the area?
- Does it hurt when you press on it?
- Does movement make it worse?
- Did it start without a direct hit?
Educational only — not a medical diagnosis.
What to do now
- Rest from activity
- Avoid movements that cause pain
- Ice 10–15 minutes
- Avoid heavy lifting
- Stay lightly active as tolerated
Red flags
- Severe chest pain
- Difficulty breathing
- Pain spreading to arm or jaw
- Dizziness or fainting
- Symptoms that worsen quickly
Recovery tips
- Gradually return to activity
- Avoid overuse
- Strengthen upper body muscles
- Maintain good posture
- Allow time for healing
Educational only. Not a medical diagnosis.