Low-tech rehabilitation and management of a 64 year old male patient with acute idiopathic onset of costochondritis.

OBJECTIVE This study was conducted to discuss the treatment and management of a patient presenting with acute idiopathic costochondritis. CASE 64 year old male patient presenting with acute anterior chest pain of one week duration. TREATMENT High-velocity low-amplitude thrust manipulation was used to the zygapophyseal joints of the thoracic spine, costotransverse, and costochondral joints involved. Acupuncture, ischemic compression, cross fibre friction massage techniques, and cryotherapy were utilized on the local area of pain. Specific exercise prescription (low tech rehabilitation) was also utilized. Improvement of pain reported on the Visual Analog Scale was noted with a complete resolution of the condition at the conclusion of treatment. No recurrences were reported on an eleven month follow up of the patient. CONCLUSION Conservative management, including manipulation and exercise prescription, may be beneficial in the treatment of benign costochondritis.