Have you ever wondered what gives the ribcage its flexibility and protects the underlying organs, such as the heart and lungs? The answers lie in the structure of costal cartilage, an important component of the thoracic cage that plays an essential role in breathing and maintaining posture.
Costal cartilage is also known as the glue of the ribcage that gives it structure and mobility. However, minor inflammation and injury to the costal cartilage can cause persistent issues.
At ER of Irving, our board-certified emergency physicians are experts in evaluating costal cartilage chest pain and providing emergency assessment with advanced imaging and diagnostics, plus coordination with specialists for ongoing treatment.
In this blog, we focus on explaining the anatomy and function of costal cartilage, exploring the common causes of costal cartilage pain, and outlining effective steps to take in case of injury.
What Is Costal Cartilage?
The costal cartilage is a semi-rigid connective tissue that joins the ribs to the sternum (breastbone). It is a type of hyaline cartilage that is on the front side of the ribcage. Costal cartilage is the crucial part of the thoracic cage.
Costal cartilage is also referred to as:
- Rib Cartilage
- Chondral cartilage
- Thoracic cartilage
Location of Costal Cartilage
Costal cartilage is the bars of hyaline cartilage that are present in all 12 pairs of ribs. They connect the anterior ends of the ribs to the sternum.
Anatomical Placement of Costal Cartilage
Below are the details of the 12 pairs of ribs that form the costal cartilage
| Rib Pair Number |
Type of Rib |
Details |
| Ribs 1-7 |
True Ribs |
Connects the sternum through individual segments of costal cartilage.
|
| Ribs 8-10 |
False |
Connect to the sternum indirectly via a sharp strip of cartilage that connects to the costal cartilage from the 7th rib |
| Ribs 11-12 |
Floating Ribs |
Freely fall back of the abdominal wall and do not connect the costal cartilage to the sternum.
|
Costal Cartilage Function
In general, costal cartilage plays a vital role in the structure and function of the thoracic cage. It is created from hyaline cartilage and supports breathing, protects organs, and absorbs shock.
Primary Functions of Costal Cartilage
It enables the rib cage to move during breathing. As it supports lung inflation and deflation, a minor discomfort can affect breathing abilities. In such cases, it is advised to get diagnostic imaging immediately to identify the problem.
It is responsible for protecting the underlying organs, such as the heart and lungs. Moreover, it also protects the flow of blood by covering the blood vessels.
It connects the framework of the bony ribs and the sternum while maintaining the structure of the chest walls.
Why Understanding the Costal Cartilage Is Important?
Exploring the function, injury causes, and recovery plan of the costal cartilage is essential as it aids in breathing. Ignoring the pain of this component prolongs the pain up to 6 months.
At ER of Irving, we understand the significance of costal cartilage and its role in our respiratory system, that’s why we offer 24/7 emergency evaluation services with comprehensive on-site lab testing and same-day emergency assessment results.
How To Know That Your Costal Cartilage Pain Is Serious?
Costal cartilage pain might be mild but eventually increases over time. By knowing its early signs, you can get an instant medical checkup and follow an effective plan.
Common Signs of Costal Cartilage Injury
- Sharp pain near the rib cage
- Sudden swelling near the rib cage area
- Breathing problems and constant sneezing
What Causes Costal Cartilage Pain?
Costal cartilage pain is caused on the front side of the chest wall, and its pain closely resembles heart-related problems.
Causes of Costal Cartilage Pain
- Inflammation of the costal cartilage
- Inflammation in costochondritis
- Physical injury or mental trauma
- Complications due to surgery
- Musculoskeletal Imbalance
- Eating foods high in trans fats & saturated fats
How to Treat Costal Cartilage Injury?
Treatment options:
- Rest and avoid physical activities
- Physical and hot/cold therapy
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Chest pain treatment by qualified doctors
Lifestyle Changes to Care about the Costal Cartilage
By following a better routine, the chances of costal cartilage pain can be reduced. This involves both physical betterment and a balanced diet.
Exercises for Costal Cartilage
- Stretching exercises
- Avoiding weight lifting exercises
- Breathing exercises
- Yoga
- Posture correction exercises
Diet for Costal Cartilage
- Anti-inflammatory foods
- Avoid foods high in trans fats & saturated fats
- Foods rich in calcium and magnesium
- Omega-3 fatty acids
Final Verdict: Costal Cartilage Health Starts With Early Prevention
When you experience costal cartilage pain, it might last up to 6 months. But with proper care and a healthy routine, you can improve your thoracic health. Understanding the function and anatomy of hyaline cartilage is important, as it plays a significant role in helping you breathe.
Immediately visit us or contact us when you experience severe costal cartilage pain requiring emergency evaluation, or when you need urgent assessment of chest pain symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many ribs have costal cartilage?
The first ten rib pair (1-10) has the costal cartilage, whereas the 11-12 ribs, known as floating ribs, freely fall on the costal cartilage but do not connect it to the sternum.
What are the symptoms of costal cartilage injury?
The early symptoms of costal cartilage injury include sharp pain in the chest, tenderness or swelling, breathing problems, and swelling around the rib cage.
What happens if the costal cartilage gets injured?
If you have costal cartilage pain or injury, you might face breathing difficulties, constant coughing, and sharp pain in the chest.
Can we treat costal cartilage pain at home?
Mild costochondritis symptoms may be managed at home with rest and ice/heat therapy, but emergency evaluation is recommended for severe chest pain to rule out serious conditions and receive appropriate care guidance.
How long does it take to heal coastal cartilage pain?
Typically, costal cartilage pain caused due to costochondritis can be treated within 6-12 weeks with proper care. However, if the pain is neglected, then it can be prolonged up to 6 months.
