- Xiphoid process pain when sitting. May 7, 2025 · What is Xiphodynia (Xiphoidalgia)? Xiphodynia or Xiphoidalgia refers to inflammation and pain originating from the xiphoid process, the small, cartilaginous extension at the lower part of the sternum (breastbone). Nurse here - is it soft or hard to the touch? The xyphoid process would be hard and a hernia would be soft. There's no specific time of day or trigger that makes me feel it. Xiphodynia, also known as xiphoid syndrome, is a rare cause of epigastric pain that may mimic acute coronary syndrome, esophagitis, cholecystitis, and costochondritis (1). Basically anything I eat, it seems all food is the trigger for it, triggers chest pressure right near the center of my sternum and xiphoid process. xiphoid size varies (e. Myofascial pain is a process in which pain and dysfunction are related to the development and persistence of focal sensitive areas or trigger points, that when pressed can cause referred pain (pain felt elsewhere). Find out the causes and treatment for Xiphoid Process Pain. This leads to a prolonged Jun 17, 2024 · Xiphoid syndrome Xiphoid syndrome is the painful swelling of the xiphoid process, the protrusion of cartilage at the bottom of the sternum. Aug 17, 2015 · Power of Observation Cause and effect: Texas surgeon changes lives by listening to patients AOA board-certified surgeon Albert H. It is a small cartilaginous. Jan 18, 2023 · Xiphoidalgia syndrome is a disorder in which there is pain and tenderness in the xiphoid process, which is situated on the sternum. It consists of three parts: manubrium (upper part of the sternum), the body (mid section) and xiphoid process (pointy lower part of the sternum). The pain, and tenderness may increase with chest movement, lifting heavy objects, and bending. Disorders of the xiphoid process, such as xiphoid syndrome, fractures, and inflammatory conditions, can lead to pain and functional impairment, underscoring the importance of early diagnosis and appropriate management. Aug 11, 2023 · Pectus carinatum is a condition in which the sternum (breastbone) protrudes, or sticks out, more than usual. Feb 4, 2025 · The xiphoid process is the smallest and most distal part of the sternum. In three patients, pain was provoked by bending forward or by doing similar movements, e. If this accompanies other symptoms, a person should see a doctor. Xiphodynia is an uncommon thoracic wall disease, characterized by local tenderness over the xiphoid process. Management involves addressing underlying conditions. Apr 13, 2016 · Pain and inflammation over xiphoid process are normal symptoms of swollen xiphoidynia. Dec 19, 2023 · The xiphoid process is a small extension of bone just below the sternum. Computed tomography of the chest showed an elongated and Case studies report complaining of substernal chest pain that increases with inspiration shortness of breath, cough, or hemoptysis. How can freeing your ribs from your spine and having awareness of the movement of your xiphoid process change the quality and ease of your movement? Bowel sounds inconsistent. ventral or dorsal deviation, hook-like, reverse S-shape). For instance, I couldn’t locate any information about the xiphoid process being visible in an adult, or being palpable (felt with the fingertips as a small hard lump) in an adult. Clinical evaluation revealed focal tenderness over the xiphoid process, with pain reproduced on Nov 3, 2012 · A look at the xiphoid process, a tiny bone structure within the sternum. Dec 1, 2022 · The Xiphoid Process: The xiphoid process is the sternum's lowest and smallest component. People who lose weight can feel the extension sticking outwards. At the very bottom of this structure is the xiphoid, a small piece of bone. Make small circular motions on your xiphoid process with the mini massage ball. Treatment options for xiphodynia can range from conservative management to injections or surgical resection of the xiphoid Aug 24, 2022 · Conclusion Xiphodynia can be described as pain radiating from an irritated xiphoid process that can travel to the chest, abdomen, throat, arms, and head. Sep 15, 2007 · Xiphoid process pain also called xiphodynia is a medical term used to describe an ‘uncommon’ syndrome with a constellation of symptoms ranging from upper abdominal pain, chest pain, sometimes throat and arm symptoms which are referred from the xiphisternal joint or the structures attached to the xiphoid process 1. Jan 8, 2017 · What is xiphoid process pain? This condition refers to pain experienced in the xiphoid process area, which is located in the lower part of the sternum. Discover the causes and treatments for this common discomfort. In this post we shall look at what causes xiphoidalgia, what are its symptoms, diagnosis and treatment options. A comprehensive gastrointestinal workup was negative. [1] Its primary function is in respiration. Causes: Trauma: Direct impact to the chest area, such as during sports or car accidents, can injure the xiphoid process. With the abdominal cavity holding so many organs in such close proximity to each other, the cause of pain below the breastbone can vary greatly. Sometimes a blow to the area of this joint will cause this joint to malfunction. A xiphoidectomy was performed under general anesthesia, with the patient in supine position. Xiphoid process pain (also called xiphoid syndrome, xiphodynia or xiphoidalgia) affects quite a few people. Xiphodynia is a rare but debilitating condition that can be described as a form of pain on the xiphisternal joint or any related structures that are anchored to the xiphoid process. See Costochondritis and other inflammatory problems. Indigestion is common in adults and can occur once in a while or as often as every day. Pain, lumps, and its potential removal can indicate various health issues. Mar 2, 2010 · Xiphoid process – superior surface of the liver These organs and structures behind the sternum are important considerations in conditions such as breastbone pain. Pain in Xiphoid Process Area 31 M, 5’5”, 175lbs, on 40mg pantaprozole Issue: Since about the beginning of October (6-7 weeks now), I’ve had this daily, persistent pain in the area that is known as the xiphoid process. Those Pain caused by the xiphoid process is called xiphoidalgia. 2 mm (reference range, 40-50 mm Jan 5, 2018 · Sternum popping can be the result of muscle strain, anxiety, arthritis, or other causes. The resultant swelling may form a lump in the middle of the chest, between the ribs. After opening the abdominal fascia, the xiphoid process was exposed and displaced or protruded parts of the xiphoid process were excised. Xiphodynia is in fact a relatively common condition which will be missed unless considered in the differentials list. This paper is aimed at giving GPs (family physicians), ED doctors and cardiologists a better Xiphodynia or Xiphoidalgia is thought to be a rare musculoskeletal syndrome that involves referred pain referred from the xiphisternal joint or the structures attached to the xiphoid process. Differential diagnosis should include all primary and secondary disease processes located within the costal arch and cancer metastases on the liver surface. You’ll feel a bone called the xiphoid process. The pain was obvious when the patient bent over, or upon epigastric fullness. Pain in almost identical spot in back right on spine. It rests at the 10th thoracic vertebra. Oct 5, 2024 · Xiphoid Process and Trauma Trauma to the xiphoid process can occur due to blunt force injuries, such as those sustained in car accidents or falls. This condition can stem from various causes. Understanding its role is crucial for effective health management. , sitting for a long time. Yurvati, DO, has become an expert in identifying the xiphoid process as the source of mysterious pain for many patients. Your chest contains many important organs protected by your rib cage. Monitoring symptoms and managing stress through relaxation techniques may help. Xiphoidalgia syndrome may also cause abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. Mar 27, 2014 · Learn about diastasis recti, its causes, self-tests, safe exercises, and treatment options for a bulging stomach when sitting up, for all ages and abilities. It doesn’t actively hurt unless I press or massage the area, or when I kind of suck my chest in as if to be taking a deep breath. The length of the xiphoid process is typically between two and five centimeters. Such injuries may lead to fractures or dislocations of the xiphoid process, which can cause significant pain and discomfort. One of its main functions is to protect the delicate structures located behind it and, at the same time, build up the chest (thorax). This leads to a prolonged Mar 17, 2024 · Relieve xiphoid process pain with our expert solutions. Sagittal computed tomography revealed an elongated and curved xiphoid process (Figure B). In severe cases, trauma to this area may also result in damage to underlying organs, necessitating immediate medical The diaphragm is a fibromuscular sheet that lies between the thorax and abdomen and attaches to the xiphoid process of the sternum, ribs sixth to 12th ribs, and the vertebral bodies of L1 to L3. Jan 7, 2023 · A 61-year-old man who engaged in the construction industry presented to the hospital with a 5-year history of intermittent xiphoid process pain accompanied by nausea and vomiting. ) (3) So, you can get pain locally at the lower edge of the rib cage, especially on the side, but also referring into the abdomen. It connects the rectus abdominis, transversus abdominis aponeurosis, and transversus thoracic to the inferior section of the 7th costal cartilage. Apr 29, 2020 · Causes of Lump in Xiphoid Process There are numerous reasons that can make the Xiphoid Process protrude outwards. Determining what’s behind your cat’s Oct 11, 2014 · The lowest part of the sternum is called the xiphoid process, or xiphoid cartilage. When this part is damaged, it gets inflamed. Local inflammation can also occur. Overuse of the tuberosity of Mar 25, 2025 · The joints around the sternum, or breast bone, can pop for several reasons. "Because of the location of the xiphoid process, oftentimes, xyphodynia can send practitioners pursuing alternate diagnoses such as GERD, helicobacter pylori-related ulcers, or other potential causes that are i am 33 old female with upper epigastric pain under xiphoid process. Increase the pressure to intensify the massage. We report a case of a 32-year-old male with chronic sternal pain following trauma, refractory to multiple conservative treatments and local anesthetic infiltration. i have had neg. I did find information that sometimes, the xiphoid process is visible in newborns, and that over time, it loses its visibility. There can be pain to palpation of the anterior chest wall over the sternum with slight bruising across the sternal area. I've lost some weight and felt my xiphoid process sticking out. What Are the Causes Behind Sternal Pain? The xiphoid process is a small bone at the bottom of the sternum. This little bone is an anchor point for many important muscles including for the very front of the diaphragm, that muscle that helps us breathe. [1] It is caused by Clinical Relevance Xiphoidalgia: Pain arising from trauma or inflammation of the xiphoid process CPR complications: Improper hand placement during chest compressions can fracture the xiphoid, potentially damaging liver or diaphragm Xiphoid ossification: Often misinterpreted as an abnormal mass on imaging or palpation if ossified irregularly Customer: pain in xiphoid process region but deeper than the bone. It arises from the inferior and posterior margin of the sternal body and projects inferiorly. Jul 12, 2024 · Xiphoid Process Pain When pain is felt in the area of the XP it is known as xiphoid syndrome, xiphoidalgia or xiphodynia. It is the tiniest and lowest part of the sternum. Generally, the associated pain worsens when the area is physically compressed as well as with certain forms of movement, such as the bending or twisting of the torso. Xiphoid Process: Sternum Lump Pain Treatment Now after having a little idea, what actually Xiphoid Process is, below you can find the information about its pain and treatment. (4) The pain associated with xiphoidalgia is often characterized as sharp and deep. After a xiphoid trigger point injection, she experienced pain relief lasting 4 days, and thus her I noticed pain a couple of days ago when i touched the xiphoid process it is actually quite painful. These old threads about Xiphoid Process are very enlightening since many discusses significant weight loss! Xiphodynia is a rare but debilitating condition that can be described as a form of pain on the xiphisternal joint or any related structures that are anchored to the xiphoid process. Xiphodynia usually originates from trauma, such as a motor vehicle accident, to the area but may also result from heavy lifting or exertion. While a popping sternum isn’t always a cause for concern, consider seeking medical help if it’s 3: “The Hiatal Hernia Finger Test” can quickly help you diagnose a hiatal hernia. It is a small pointed segment which is joined to the rest of the sternum by a joint known as the xiphisternal joint. It articulates with the inferior portion of the 7th costal cartilage and provides attachment for rectus abdominis, transversus abdominis aponeurosis, transversus thoracis and the abdominal diaphragm. Aug 30, 2025 · The xiphisternum, also known as the xiphoid process or simply the xiphoid, is the smallest of the three parts of the sternum. An avulsion fracture of the sitting bone occurs when the ligaments holding the hamstrings to the hips tears and break off a piece of the hip bone in the process. Although small, the xiphoid process can become irritated or injured, leading to intense discomfort. [3] Most patients complain of violent localized sternal pain due to a direct trauma. However, an abdominal computed tomographic scan demonstrated an elongated xiphoid process. My physical therapist says it is due to bad posture and can be corrected with physical exercise. , What term would the nurse use to document a client's report of pain in the lower-middle area of the abdomen? Hypogastric Inogastric Hypochondriac Epigastric, A client's abdominal muscles are tense when lying supine for an abdominal assessment. Sep 28, 2017 · Xiphoid process pain is a common source of chest pain that can also cause abdominal discomfort and pain that radiates to other areas of your body. Deep breathing in particular can increase the pain, as the movement of the chest puts extra tension on the area around the xiphoid process. Xiphoid gets inflamed for days after. However, the Dec 7, 2023 · Has your cat’s breastbone started mysteriously sticking out? Don’t panic. Roll down along the edge of your rib cage about 2 to 3 centimetres from your xiphoid process. Dec 13, 2016 · The breast bone is called the sternum. The excess weight might put enough pressure on the Xiphoid Process to bend it. 1 2 3 Symptoms can often be provoked by manual compression of the sternum and the xiphoid process, which also serves as a confirmation of Xiphoid process disorders cause pain at the lower sternum, which may radiate to the chest, abdomen, or back, often leading to misdiagnosis. The second important role of the diaphragm is to provide dynamic spinal stabilisation in collaboration with deep stabilisation muscles of the body Jul 13, 2025 · xiphoid ending is classified as single, double, or triple. Reply reply Ald1ss • Aug 9, 2023 · Hi @manojuan619, While you wait for members with experience to respond I thought I would share these related articles with you that I think support that xiphoid pain can be GERD related. why? A doctor has provided 1 answer A member asked: Mar 11, 2025 · The xiphoid process can sometimes be a source of pain or discomfort, especially if injured or inflamed. However, while this distorted xiphoid process often rights itself in growing kittens or follows minor falls, it can also indicate injury or illness demanding prompt veterinary care. If twitching persists, worsens, or is accompanied by pain or Aug 25, 2022 · Xiphoidalgia is pain from the xiphoid process, with risk factors including GERD and coronary artery disease. Common symptoms include pain, swelling, and the presence of a mass in the xiphoid region. Bone-nibbling forceps were used for correcting any irregularities. elongated process) xiphoid morphology (e. g. Feb 3, 2025 · The xiphoid process is a small, bony structure at the bottom of the sternum (breastbone) in the chest. Aug 28, 2025 · Learn about the xiphoid process, its anatomy, functions, and why it is important for respiratory therapists and patient care. May 6, 2013 · Ischial tuberosity Pain Ischial bursitis is a common condition affecting a wide range of athletes, in which the fluid-filled bursa lying over the bony growth undergoes severe inflammation and causes pain. Xiphoid Syndrome (Xiphodynia) The xiphoid process, also referred to as the metasternum, is a small, bony extension of the sternum at its lower end 19. The causes are unclear, but treatments can correct it. Maintain high pressure. It’s rare, and pain in or around your xiphoid process is much more likely from one of the injuries or conditions listed above. Learn more here. May 5, 2025 · Xiphoid Process and Pain Definition Other names for the xiphoid process are processus xiphoideus, ensiform or xiphoid appendix. 13 Xiphoidalgia is a condition characterized by pain and tenderness in the xiphoid process area. Common triggers include injury, repetitive strain, or costochondritis. Chest pain is the second most common complaint seen in Emergency Departments worldwide. Xiphoid process is a small projection of the lower part of the breastbone Jun 27, 2025 · Abstract Xiphodynia is a rare, under-recognized musculoskeletal pain syndrome often misdiagnosed due to its nonspecific symptoms. Place your fingers straight into your stomach just below the left rib cage, about one inch from the center of your ribs or xiphoid process. The measured length, width, and thickness of the xiphoid process were 63. May 16, 2018 · The main symptom in all patients was chest pain in the area of the xiphoid process; in two patients, the pain region additionally involved the adjoining rib parts. Xiphoid process pain occurs for varying reasons but is often related to minor trauma to the area, over exercise (such as abdominal crunches) or can become more prominent following excessive weight loss. Straining and heavy lifting can damage the xiphoid process, leading to pain in the lower ribcage, breastbone, and muscles Sep 11, 2024 · Xiphoid process syndrome is painful swelling in your xiphoid process. Do you have problems with acid reflux or indigestion? That would probably be the case if you have an epigastric hernia but maybe not yet, if it is relatively new. You may also experience xiphoid process pain with acid reflux. symptoms still persist?: Upper abdomen: Your tests appear to have ruled out gastritis,peptic ul Key Takeaways: Xiphoid Process Cancer is a rare form of cancer that affects the xiphoid process, a small cartilaginous structure at the lower end of the sternum. It hurts mostly mid day buy especially after sitting long periods of time. (You often get some xiphoid process pain with this pattern too. Included are details on the symptoms in this area and how to treat the problem. Sep 15, 2015 · The medical term for pain behind the breast bone is retrosternal pain. Chest wall pain, costochondritis, Tietze’s Syndrome, ‘slipping ribs,’ precordial catch syndromes and xiphoid process pain for GPs (family physicians), Emergency Department (A&E) doctors and cardiologists. I get this xiphoid pain whether I'm waking up, sitting on the couch, at work, driving, or just out and about. Six patients complained of pain when lying in a prone position. Breathing doesn’t make it hurt though Oct 1, 2018 · Abdominal wall pain is often mistaken for intra-abdominal visceral pain, resulting in expensive and unnecessary laboratory tests, imaging studies, consultations, and invasive procedures. The symptoms of xiphoid process pain can be difficult to diagnose because it can mimic symptoms of other health issues. These twitches are usually harmless but can be triggered by anxiety, acid reflux, or gastrointestinal irritation. abd. Risk factors for developing secondary xiphoidalgia include injury, cold and hot compresses, ice packs, medication, and physical therapy. The main characteristics of the xiphoid syndrome are intense, sharp xiphoid process pain when pressed, intensifying pain when bending over or twisting and tenderness to touch. Xiphoidalgia and the Concept of Surgery The patient with severe xiphoid pain came into my office several months ago having just had her No, that’s not an exclusive membership of Costco but a very painful inflammation of the rib cage which, apparently, many experience and are later diagnosed with something related to their Xiphoid. A serious chest trauma or Jun 28, 2015 · The xiphoid may be broad and thin, pointed, bifid, perforated, curved, and may deviate laterally. Feel free to ask questions, and share what helps you manage the pain and hasten the recovery process. It's being irritated by growing uterus. The base articulates with the sternal body forming the xiphisternal joint while the tip of the xiphoid points inferiorly. Xiphodynia is a term used to describe an 'uncommon' syndrome with a constellation of symptoms ranging from upper abdominal pain, chest pain, sometimes throat and arm symptoms which are referred from the xiphisternal joint or the structures attached to the xiphoid process. causing massive Figure 10 shows musculocartilaginous compression of the spleen in a patient with splenomegaly, which manifested in pain while sitting. Clinical presentation Elongated and ventrally-deviated xiphoid process might mimic an epigastric mass and cause pain 3,4. The abdominal This report describes the case of a 56-year-old woman with a 6-year history of severe epigastric pain after chest compressions for cardiac arrest. Causes and Diagnosis of Xiphoid Pain Xiphoid pain refers to discomfort or pain in the xiphoid process, a small cartilage structure at the lower end of the sternum (breastbone). Repeat on the other side of your rib cage. On physical examination, a hard protuberance was palpated in the epigastrium. Learn about its function, pain causes, and treatments. Jul 20, 2017 · A broken xiphoid process increases inflammation, which leads to pain and tenderness in the chest. better in the morning, worse by evening, i have mid lt back pain near spine. Xiphodynia is pain originating from the xiphoid process. There are times when I feel like the pain does worsen or feel more present with certain foods I eat or if I eat too fast, both of which are triggers for GERD. Take control of your health today! The xiphoid process is the lowest and smallest part of the sternum. It is typically located at the T9 or T10 vertebral level of the anterior thorax and is usually triangular. A mass was visible in the mid-portion of the epigastrium, particularly when in the supine position (Figure A). sensitive to the touch and sometimes radiates to muscles at same time as upper stomach-lower chest pain. Sometimes it may feel like the extension has enlarged but generally, it causes pain just by protruding outwards. it hurts if i sit a certain way as well. Attached to the anterior Jun 3, 2013 · There's a section of cartilage near sternum called xiphoid process. Although xiphodynia is a musculoskeletal pain in nature, the pain Jan 18, 2021 · Dyspepsia, also known as indigestion, is an uncomfortable feeling in the chest or under the xiphoid process that occurs during or after eating, and may have one or a combination of symptoms that include abdominal fullness, bloating, and gas. hurts real bad when sittin especially when slouched forward in chair or driving. What is Lump on the Sternum? Definition, Pain, Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, Lump on the Sternum. 7. Digital examination of the xiphoid process reproduces symptoms. Unlike the other two parts of the sternum namely manubrium and body, there are costal cartilages and ribs that are attached to the xiphoid process. Patients can report symptoms such as thoracic or abdominal wall pain, throat tightness, nausea, and referred pain to arms, shoulders, back, or neck. hurts more when I tighten stomach muscles in stomach or suck in gut. In many cases, a protruding sternum or chest bone bump signals no dire cause for concern. Although xiphodynia is a musculoskeletal pain in nature, the pain located in the anterior chest can commonly mislead physicians into pursuing other diagnoses such as cardiac diseases. The jumping sensation below the xiphoid process may be due to involuntary muscle spasms often linked to stress or digestive disturbances. Jul 16, 2025 · Living With Xiphoid Syndrome Living with xiphoid syndrome, a condition characterized by pain or inflammation in the xiphoid process (the small cartilaginous extension at the lower end of the sternum) can be challenging, especially when pain is triggered by everyday activities like bending, lifting, or sitting for long periods. Pain below this xiphoid process or just underneath is technically epigastric pain (upper middle abdominal pain). Aug 9, 2025 · Xiphodynia is a condition where pain radiating from an irritated xiphoid process can travel to the chest, abdomen, throat, and arms. Recognizing the symptoms of Xiphoid Process Cancer is crucial for early diagnosis. A 3- to 4-cm longitudinal midline incision was made above the xiphoid process. A 59-year-old woman presented with a 30-year history of epigastric cutaneous protuberance. Additionally, the pain A group for those who are suffering from costochondritis and Tietze syndrome (/r/TietzeSyndrome). ct, upper endo, stool test, lipase and abd ul 4 months ago. A swollen xiphoid process may be due to inflammation, trauma, or irritation of the cartilage at the lower end of the sternum. It is a small cartilaginous Pain caused by the xiphoid process is called xiphoidalgia. Fracture of xiphoid process, subsequent encounter for fracture with nonunion Sternum is a flat bone located at the front of your chest. This can lead to shortness of breath or avoidance of deep breathing, which further increases the discomfort. uly cr ss5yi nxla kur46 wtb md23xs 40uay jdmh dpcs
