Rib pain can force you to end your workout early. If it persists after your stretching session, it can affect your mobility, making it difficult to engage in your normal daily activities. As long as the pain is mild and concentrated in your rib area, it usually does not pose a serious medical concerns. If the pain spreads throughout your chest and to your shoulder, neck and arms, or if you also experience fainting, nausea, sweating and shortness of breath, seek emergency medical treatment. Otherwise, you usually can treat mild rib pain at home using self-care measures.
Side Stitch
If you experience a sharp pain under the ribcage that appears suddenly, it is probably a side stitch. Although side stitches are not serious and usually disappear almost as quickly as they start, the burning pain can bring your workout to a halt. No exact explanation exists for this type of pain, according to the American Council on Exercise, but the council theorizes that the pain probably occurs when you pull or jar the ligaments that attach your stomach to the diaphragm. Side stitches commonly happen to runners, but also can accompany other types of vigorous exercise, including stretching.
Side Stitch Prevention/Solution
You can minimize or prevent the pain from side stitches by eating a light snack, like a bagel or an apple, about two hours before your workout. When you experience a side stitch, stop exercising or reduce your workout intensity level until the pain goes away. Breathe in deeply with your lips pursed, tighten your abdominal muscles and bend forward. The American Council on Exercise suggests that you also can prevent side stitches by working out at an intensity that matches your current fitness level, then gradually increasing your intensity as you become more fit.
Pulled Chest Muscle
Another potential cause of pain behind your ribs is a pulled, or strained, chest muscle. This condition can result when you overuse or overextend the muscles and tendons that attach your ribs to your sternum during your stretching workout. A pulled chest muscle causes pain when moving or stretching. You also might experience pain, swelling and muscle spasms.
Pulled Chest Muscle Home Treatment Advice
Pulled chest muscles usually respond well to home treatment as long as the symptoms are mild and you do not experience signs of infection. Rest as much as possible -- avoid any stretching exercises that might make the injury worse. Ice the area with an ice pack for 15 to 20 minutes at a time for two to three days to minimize swelling.
MayoClinic.com recommends seeking medical treatment if you can't move the affected area or see redness or streaks coming from the injury. Mild to moderate sprains usually heal within three to six weeks. Consult with your doctor if you continue to experience pain beyond this point.
