Chest pain

Pain or pressure on the chest can be the result of a heart problem. However, such symptoms can also originate from other muscles, the ribs, or the lungs. The advice is: if in doubt, always contact your doctor immediately.

Anatomy of the chest

The ribcage consists of the sternum with twelve ribs on either side that are connected at the back to the thoracic spine. Between the ribs are the intercostal muscles. These help with breathing by lifting the ribs, which enlarges the chest cavity.

The large chest muscle covers the upper ribs at the front of the chest. At the top, these are bordered by the collarbone. The chest muscle provides inward rotation and movement of the shoulder. It also helps with breathing and pulls the shoulder girdle forward.

Inside the ribcage are the heart and lungs. Thanks to the cage-like structure formed by the sternum, ribs, and thoracic spine, the heart and lungs are well protected from external forces.

Heart, lungs, or another cause?

Distinguishing between heart problems, lung problems, or another problem that causes chest pain is not always easy. Below we try to make a general distinction. 

Chest pain originating from the heart
Heart-related problems may be present when pressure or pain on the chest is on the left side. If there is radiation to the arm and the symptoms worsen with exertion or changes in heart rate, the suspicion of a heart problem increases.

Chest pain originating from the lungs
The lungs can also cause chest pain. A lung problem is suspected when there is a pressing pain over a large area of the chest and the symptoms depend on breathing or exertion.

Non-heart- or lung-related pain
In addition to heart- and lung-related pain, chest pain can also have other causes. The symptoms can arise acutely or gradually (slowly). Important conditions to consider include rib fractures, rib bruises, joint dysfunction, or problems with one of the muscles of the ribcage.

Rib problems can occur as a result of an accident or fall. However, this is not always the case. Rib symptoms can also arise as a result of sneezing. Coughing, sneezing, and deep breathing can be particularly painful when the ribs are affected.

Pain that does not originate from the heart or lungs is often movement-dependent. This means the pain generally occurs with movements we make, such as bending, extending, or rotating the upper body. Certain arm movements can also cause pain.

Check your symptoms

When in doubt, it is advisable to always contact your family doctor immediately. A good assessment can often be made quickly by phone as to whether you need urgent help. No acute help needed? Then you can take the online physical therapy check. You then answer a number of questions about your symptoms, after which we compare your symptoms with the most common conditions and injuries within physical therapy.

If necessary, you can then make an appointment at a physical therapy practice for professional advice and treatment.

Conditions

In the overview below, you can read more about different conditions and injuries that cause chest pain.