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Published on: 4/28/2025

What Are the Possible Causes of Left Side Muscle Pain under the Ribs?

Left side muscle pain under the ribs can be caused by problems with the ribs, muscles, or nerves, like twelfth rib syndrome, intercostal neuralgia, rib syndrome, or inflammation where the ribs join the breastbone (costochondritis).

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Explanation

This type of pain might have several causes. One possibility is twelfth rib syndrome, where the last rib becomes irritated and hurts the muscles nearby. Another possibility is intercostal neuralgia. This is when the nerves between your ribs, called intercostal nerves, become irritated or inflamed, causing pain. Painful rib syndrome is another condition, where the area around the rib, including soft tissues and muscles, becomes sore, often because of small injuries or strain. In addition, costochondritis, which is inflammation of the cartilage connecting your ribs to your breastbone, can cause pain under your ribs on one side. Sometimes, the pain might also be due to muscle strain from heavy lifting, awkward movements, or even poor posture. If you continue to have pain, it is important to talk to your doctor so they can determine the cause and help you feel better.

(References)

  • Cranfield KA, Buist RJ, Nandi PR, Baranowski AP. The twelfth rib syndrome. J Pain Symptom Manage. 1997 Mar;13(3):172-5. doi: 10.1016/s0885-3924(96)00271-0. PMID: 9114637.

  • Fazekas D, Doroshenko M, Horn DB. Intercostal Neuralgia. [Updated 2023 Aug 14]. In: StatPearls [Internet].

  • Scott EM, Scott BB. Painful rib syndrome--a review of 76 cases. Gut. 1993 Jul;34(7):1006-8. doi: 10.1136/gut.34.7.1006. PMID: 8344569; PMCID: PMC1374244.

  • Schumann JA, Sood T, Parente JJ. Costochondritis. [Updated 2024 Apr 20]. In: StatPearls [Internet].

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