Sternum Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Management

If you are experiencing sternum pain, it is crucial to consult a medical professional promptly. While we can provide some information to help you understand the context, no one can replace a doctor's professional advice. Always seek medical attention if you are unsure about your health.

Understanding Sternum Pain: Potential Causes and Symptoms

The sternum, also known as the breastbone, is a significant component of the skeletal system, located in the center of the chest. Pains in the sternum area can be caused by various factors, including injury, inflammation, or underlying medical conditions such as osteoporosis. It is essential to understand the symptoms to know when to consult a doctor.

Common symptoms of sternum pain include:

Localized pain or discomfort: This can range from mild to severe and may be present at all times or when you press the area. Dull or sharp sensations: Depending on the cause, the pain can be described as dull, sharp, or throbbing. Increased pain with certain actions: Activities such as deep breathing, coughing, or chest expansion can exacerbate the pain.

Exploring the Connection: Osteoporosis and Sternum Pain

Our mother's experience with severe osteoporosis provided us with a firsthand look at how this condition can cause sternum pain. Osteoporosis is a progressive skeletal disorder characterized by low bone density and structural deterioration of bone tissue, making bones fragile and increasing the risk of fractures. The bone density loss can lead to inflammation in the sternum, which in turn can cause pain.

During a consultation with an orthopedic doctor, the doctor gently pressed on the sternum to determine if it caused pain. Our mother experienced severe pain, indicating potential inflammation. The doctor attributed this inflammation to her osteoporosis. The doctor explained that the ability/capacity to generate blood by other bones, such as the spine, often shifts to the sternum as the condition progresses. This shift places an added burden on the sternum, causing it to become more sensitive.

Treating Sternum Pain: Medical Interventions and Forteo Treatment

For our mother, the treatment included an osteoporosis medication called Forteo [teriparatide rDNA origin injection]. Forteo is a hormone that helps increase bone density and reduce the risk of fractures in people with osteoporosis. This medication has been effective in managing the sternum inflammation and related pain to some extent.

Forteo is not without its side effects, which may include:

Morning leg cramps: Early in the treatment, these can be quite severe but usually subside over time. Headaches, dizziness, and nausea: These side effects may persist for a while but often improve over time.

Our mother has been using Forteo for several months, and while the leg cramps are still present, they are gradually easing. It is important to note that each individual's response to medication can vary, and it is essential to follow the doctor's instructions carefully.

Please remember that I am neither a doctor nor qualified to provide medical advice. You should always consult a medical professional for accurate diagnosis and treatment.