I've been having this sharp, needle-like pain in my upper right chest near my collarbone, especially when I breathe or move my head sideways, and it's been going on for about three weeks now. Before this, there was a constant pain in my shoulder that just kind of disappeared on its own. I'm really wondering what this could be? Should I be worried about this?

Dr Anshul Maheshwari

General Practitioner

• MBBS
• 5+ Yrs

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Could be due to inflammation of the muscles or tendons in that area. This type of pain can sometimes radiate from the shoulder to the chest. To help relieve the pain and inflammation, you can try taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen (e.g., Advil) at a dose of 400mg to 800mg every 6-8 hours with food. Additionally, applying a topical pain relief gel containing diclofenac (e.g., Voltaren) to the painful area can also help. It is important to rest the affected area, avoid activities that worsen the pain, and apply ice packs for 15-20 minutes several times a day. If the pain persists or worsens, it is recommended to follow up with a healthcare provider for further evaluation and management.

Answered 04/07/2025