What Could Cause Pain Near the Rib Cage on the Left Side?

Reviewed by Tomas Diaz, MD

Emergency Medicine

Pain near the left rib cage can be caused by conditions such as costochondritis, intercostal neuralgia, and other issues.

Explanation

One possible cause is costochondritis. This occurs when the cartilage connecting your ribs to your breastbone becomes inflamed, causing soreness or sharp pain near the rib cage. Another possibility is intercostal neuralgia, where the nerves between your ribs become irritated. This can cause a burning, tingling, or aching pain on the left side. Other causes of pain near the ribs on the left side include musculoskeletal injuries, pleurisy (inflammation of the lung lining), and even heart-related conditions in some cases. Conditions affecting the stomach or spleen may also be felt on the left side.. If the pain persists or worsens, consult a doctor for a proper evaluation and treatment recommendations.

(References)

Fazekas D, Doroshenko M, Horn DB. Intercostal Neuralgia. [Updated 2023 Aug 14]. In: StatPearls [Internet].
Schumann JA, Sood T, Parente JJ. Costochondritis. [Updated 2024 Apr 20]. In: StatPearls [Internet].
Kumar R, Ganghi R, Rana V, Bose M. The painful rib syndrome. Indian J Anaesth. 2013 May;57(3):311-3. doi: 10.4103/0019-5049.115585. PMID: 23983300; PMCID: PMC3748696.

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