Ribs Rubbing?

[leahswim]

Hello, I was wondering what to do about a rib problem I seem to have. It seems like two of my ribs on my upper left ribcage are rubbing together. This causes a tremendous amount of pain. I am a swimmer and it sometimes sends spurts of pain into my left chest area. I'm really getting frustrated with trying to ignore it and am wondering if anyone out there has any advice. I have not seen a doctor yet and am wondering if I should to get a chest x-ray or something. If anyone out there can relate, please comment! Thanks!

[Dr Santos]

Hi,

Swimming regularly would surely lead to problems such as muscle strain. If the pain persists, it would help us determine the underlying cause if imaging studies such as CT scan or  chest x-ray be done. This would help us visualize musculoskeletal structures that could be causing you the pain. Direct clinical evaluation is also important. Take care and keep us posted.

[Heavenrayne]

I am having the same problem, I will breathe in & I will have a very intense sharp pain in my upper left rib cage, almost towards the middle. It will last for a few seconds to a minute & I can't breathe in or the pain gets worse. If there is anything that I could do to fix this before seeing a dr, please let me know. Thank you!