Costochondritis is an inflammation (irritation and swelling) of the cartilage that attaches the ribs to the breastbone. Cartilage is a bendable material that lets the ribs move a little. Costochondritis causes pain and soreness in the chest. It usually goes away on its own within a few weeks. 

To help your child feel more comfortable:

• Give medicine for pain if your health care provider says it's OK. Use these medicines exactly as directed:
  • acetaminophen (such as Tylenol® or a store brand)
    OR
    
  • ibuprofen (such as Advil®, Motrin® or a store brand)
• Try a cold pack on the painful area for 10–15 minutes every 3–4 hours as needed. Place a towel between the cold pack and the skin.
• Try a heating pad or warm compress on the painful area.
• Try gentle stretching of the chest and arms.
• Help your child avoid activities (such as carrying backpacks, lifting or sports) that make the pain worse.

Your child:

• has pain that gets worse
• still has pain after 2–3 weeks

What causes costochondritis? Costochondritis can happen after:

• a hit to the chest
• lifting something heavy (such as a backpack)
• hard exercise
• coughing a lot

Sometimes the cause isn't known. Costochondritis is not a sign of a heart problem.

How do I know what activities are OK for my child? Your child should immediately stop doing any activity that causes pain. Sometimes kids have to take a break from sports or need help carrying things until the costochondritis goes away. Ask your health care provider if you're unsure about what's OK for your child.