Intercostal neuralgia is a form of nerve pain that affects the intercostal nerves — the small nerves running between the ribs, wrapping around the chest and upper abdomen. When these nerves become irritated, inflamed, or damaged, they can cause sharp, burning, or stabbing pain that follows the path of a rib.
Typical symptoms include:
Causes may include nerve irritation from thoracic disc or joint problems, trauma or rib injury, shingles (herpes zoster), post-surgical scarring, or nerve entrapment. Because this pain can mimic heart, lung, or abdominal conditions, expert assessment is vital to rule out other causes and confirm a nerve-related origin.
At Wessex Pain Clinic, we start with a detailed history and physical examination to understand the pain pattern, triggers, and underlying medical background.
A neurological assessment helps identify areas of altered sensation or tenderness along the rib spaces. If needed, MRI or ultrasound imaging may be used to check for disc or joint involvement, or local nerve entrapment.
When uncertainty remains, a diagnostic intercostal nerve block can help confirm the diagnosis — a small injection of local anaesthetic temporarily numbs the nerve. If pain relief follows, this verifies the intercostal nerve as the source and guides further treatment.
Our physiotherapy and rehabilitation specialists help patients restore movement and posture while avoiding aggravating patterns that can perpetuate pain. Hydrotherapy can ease stiffness and support gentle exercise.
We also work with pain psychology partners to help patients manage persistent pain, anxiety, and fatigue — addressing the emotional as well as physical aspects of recovery.
When structural causes such as disc herniation or rib instability are identified, we collaborate with spinal or thoracic surgeons to ensure fully integrated care.
At Wessex Pain Clinic, we work as a team and meet regularly to discuss complex, treatment resistant or unusual cases. As such you will often receive the expertise of several pain consultants. We believe that we are one of very few pain clinics to offer this.
We may recommend:
Medication plans are reviewed regularly to ensure the best balance of relief and tolerability.
Our friendly team is on hand to support you every step of the way. Please get in touch at any time.
