If spasms occur in the muscles surrounding the chest, back, and shoulders, they may cause the joints and other tissues in the area to shift. This can lead to the sternum popping or crackling. If popping and pain occur with a muscle spasm, it is likely that the spasm is causing these symptoms.
If this occurs regularly, it is important for a doctor to determine what is causing the spasms. A strain or sprain in the muscles or joints of the chest can also cause a popping sound in the sternum. Muscles and connective tissues that are slightly out of place can swell, putting pressure on surrounding structures that can lead to a popping sound.
When this happens, the person will likely feel pain in the area, beyond that in the injured muscle or joint. In the case of a minor strain or sprain, a doctor may recommend rest and home remedies for the pain. Anyone who suspects that they have this type of injury should seek medical attention to make sure that there are no fractured bones in the area. In some cases, a popping sound can indicate a fracture in the sternum.
This can result from an injury, possibly caused by impact during sports or a car accident. Sternum fractures can be very painful and may cause other symptoms, such as difficulty breathing and swelling in the chest. In some cases, the injury may also affect the lungs and heart. Anyone who has experienced an injury to the chest and hears a popping sound in the sternum should see a doctor for a diagnosis. A person with widespread or severe arthritis may hear clicking or popping sounds in their sternum as cartilage in the area wears down.
If a person with arthritis starts hearing their sternum pop, it may be a good idea to see a doctor to discuss adjustments to their treatment. Costochondritis is inflammation in the connective cartilage throughout the rib cage. This inflammation can lead to concerning symptoms, such as chest pain that may resemble the pain of a heart attack. If a person thinks that they may have costochondritis, they should see a doctor because it is vital to rule out other underlying issues that can cause similar symptoms.
Anyone who thinks they are experiencing a heart attack should receive emergency medical attention. Tietze syndrome is a rare condition that causes inflammation in the ribs.
The inflammation typically occurs where the second and third ribs attach to the breastbone, according to The National Organization for Rare Disorders. The area will likely swell and may be painful to the touch. The pain may also spread to the arms and neck. A chronic stress or anxiety disorder can cause tension in the chest. This tension can contribute to symptoms such as a popping sound or pain. In some cases, a person having a panic attack may confuse the symptoms for those of a heart attack.
Learn more about symptoms of anxiety and panic attacks here. A study in the journal Heart, Lung and Circulation noted that in the first few months after cardiac surgery, the sternum may move slightly during activities that involve the upper body. While this movement is slight, it may cause popping sounds in the sternum as the structures shift. Your doctor will usually be able to help you determine the underlying cause of the popping, and treating that will help with your popping symptoms.
In many cases, a popping sternum is no cause for alarm and may even go away on its own with time. Here's what may be causing your pain and when to see your doctor. Slipping rib syndrome occurs when the cartilage on the lower ribs slips and moves, leading to pain in the chest or upper abdomen.
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A broken ankle is a more severe injury than a sprained ankle and usually takes longer to heal…. Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect. Why Is My Sternum Popping? Medically reviewed by William Morrison, M. Causes Treatment Outlook Overview The sternum, or breastbone, is a long, flat bone located in the middle of the chest. This connection between bone and cartilage forms two different joints between the ribs and sternum: The sternocostal joint joins the sternum and the cartilage.
Alert icon. You are here Ask Lucy Get cracking! A few years ago, I got a pain in my middle chest from doing too many deep push-ups. In any case, the pain came and went, lasting for a few minutes each time, once or twice a week for a few weeks.
It even makes the same sound. Is this related to my previous injury? Should I be concerned or get it checked out? Dear Cracked Up: First Lucy heard from a reader who could burp on cue. Now she has one who can crack his chest?
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