Suggest treatment for severe pain in the rib cage
Patient: I broke three ribs 2 years ago. In the last two months I ve had the same pain in the area of one of the breaks (right hand side between shoulder blade and spine.) I hear and feel a clicking sound when I rotate the shoulder, almost like the sound when you crack your nuckles. It s not debilitating, but it s also not going away. Any advice or help would be most appreciated. Doctor: Hello, I have studied your case. I suspect possibility of compression of thoracic spine nerve root leading to cracking sound.There can be associated rotator cuff injury.I will advise you to do MRI shoulder/spine and orthopaedic doctor opinion.For these symptoms analgesic and neurotropic medication  like pregabalin can be started after consulting your doctor.Till time, avoid lifting weights, Sit with support to back. You can consult physiotherapist for help.Physiotherapy like ultrasound and interferential therapy will give quick relief.Hope this answers your query. If you have additional questions or follow up queries then please do not hesitate in writing to us. I will be happy to answer your queries. Wishing you good health.Take care.