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Costochondritis + TENS Unit?

courtneys578
courtneys578
I Googled sternum pain and came across costochondritis, which I've heard on this discussion board many times. This is the first time I've experienced pain in this area. I don't like it. :-( I've taken Dilaudid and just put my TENS unit on it (very low). It's been going on since this morning. For those of you that have this, how long do your flares usually last?

Thanks,
Courtney
Fantod
Fantod
That's a tough question. It varies from person to person. I have periodic bouts which last a few days. Other people have this problem longer, sometimes even months.

I really like Arnica Gel for it. Stick on heat pads are handy too when you can't be tethered to a heating pad. Some people find icing is more helpful than heat.

Recently, I added Epsom Salts Lotion (Amazon ) to my arsenal. And finally since this an inflammatory issue, I use a supplement called Curamin made by Terry Naturally. Given that you may have a GI issue right now, I would stay away from that. And, even if you didn't, ask your doc first.

I'm sorry that you have to deal with this on top of having 2 trips to ER. I hope that you get some relief using the Tens unit. Feel better soon!
Fantod
Fantod
Btw - I now use the Quell pain relieving unit that I mentioned to you to manage Costco. Works like a treat for me. Hugs!
courtneys578
courtneys578
Thanks, Fantod. The TENS doesnt seem to be doing much I think I may move on to ice, as I dont tolerate heat at all. GAH. This blows. I thought it was my GI stuff, but it seems to be localized to my sternum area. Im also afraid to take my anti-inflammatory because of the GI stuff.
milily
milily
I am pretty sure you should not use a tens unit on your sternum - because of your heart . Have you ever tried biofreeze or ice to your sternum?
Fantod
Fantod
Milily is correct - You should not be using the Tens unit close to your heart. It could interfere with your hearts electrical activity. Try ice and see if that helps. Sorry. I know all too well how uncomfortable you are feeling. Take care.
courtneys578
courtneys578
I read the suggestion for the TENS unit for costochondritis treatment on the Mayo Clinic site, so I thought Id give it a shot. It was not a pleasant feeling. The cold therapy seems to be helping a bit- Im using a menthol patch that is sold for migraines which lightly adheres to your skin, so you can get up and move around if you need to. It is convenient for me, especially at the moment, since Ive been getting up to go to the restroom often this evening. :-( Im miserable.
Godstrength
Godstrength
I'm glad others talked about a no go for tens unit on chest. I would be worried if you used it there. Have had this condition for 8 years. It just comes and goes as it pleases. I haven't found anything that really works well. Best of luck!
AdrianaIna
AdrianaIna
Sometimes aspirin helps; sometimes tylenol. Warm showers don't hurt, but I don't know that they help. Stretching does not help for some reason, but slow,deep, easy breathing never hurts.
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