Lifestyle and home remedies

It can be frustrating to know that there's little your doctor can do to treat your costochondritis. But self-care measures might make you feel more comfortable. They include:

• Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs pain relievers. Ask your doctor about using ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) or naproxen sodium (Aleve, others).
• Heat or ice. Try placing hot compresses or a heating pad on the painful area several times a day. Keep the heat on a low setting. Ice also might be helpful.
• Rest. Avoid activities that make your pain worse.