Injury from Parallel Bar Dips: Chest Pain and Recovery

Injured while performing dip exercises on parallel bars?

Hello, doctor: Three days ago, while performing dips, I suspect that my posture was incorrect, which caused a popping sound from my sternum, similar to cracking knuckles, and it was quite loud.
At that moment, I felt a lot of pain, and now, whenever I exert myself slightly in the middle of my chest or take a deep breath, I experience pain.
I can't take a deep breath without feeling pressure on my sternum.
Unsure of which specialist to see, I went to a pulmonology clinic where I had an X-ray taken.
The doctor said there was nothing serious, suspecting a muscle strain, and prescribed me a topical analgesic.
However, the day before yesterday, when I sneezed uncontrollably, my sternum popped again, causing significant pain.
I visited another clinic where I received an injection for pain relief and was prescribed anti-inflammatory pain medication, but the injection did not alleviate the pain.
After a day, the pain remained unchanged.
Today, I returned to the same clinic and inquired whether there might be an issue with the bone.
The doctor stated that it is unlikely for the sternum or the surrounding cartilage to be problematic.
I received another injection for pain relief and an additional injection for nerve block.
The doctor recommended applying heat to my chest.
After the injections, the pain has slightly improved, but I still feel uncomfortable.
I would like to ask the doctor if a bone issue would cause severe pain and whether I should see an orthopedic specialist for further examination, or if it is normal for this type of pain to persist for several days.
I am concerned that my regular exercise routine might be affected.

Lao Wang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/03/18

Dr. Hong Ximing reply Orthopedics

Performing dips incorrectly can lead to dislocation between the sternum and ribs, resulting in pain.
It is recommended to rest for at least 4 to 6 weeks to allow for recovery.
X-rays cannot reveal this condition, and diagnosis primarily relies on palpation.
Resting will facilitate healing.

Reply Date: 2016/03/18

More Info

Injuries sustained from exercises like parallel bar dips can lead to various complications, particularly if the movements are performed with improper form. The symptoms you describe, including a popping sound from the sternum, localized pain during movement, and difficulty with deep breathing, suggest that there may be a soft tissue injury, such as a muscle strain or a possible costochondral injury (where the ribs attach to the sternum).

When you heard a "pop" sound, it could have been the result of a muscle or tendon snapping over a bony prominence or a minor injury to the cartilage that connects the ribs to the sternum. The immediate pain you felt is consistent with a strain or sprain, which can occur when the muscles or ligaments are overstretched or torn. The fact that you experience pain with deep breathing or when exerting yourself indicates that the injury may involve the intercostal muscles (the muscles between the ribs) or the cartilage in the chest area.

The X-ray results showing no significant issues are reassuring, as they typically rule out fractures or dislocations. However, soft tissue injuries often do not show up on X-rays, which means that you could still be experiencing significant discomfort due to muscle strain or inflammation of the surrounding tissues.
In terms of recovery, it is essential to allow your body time to heal. While pain management through medications and topical treatments is important, physical therapy may also be beneficial. A physical therapist can guide you through gentle stretching and strengthening exercises that can help restore mobility and reduce pain. Heat therapy, as suggested by your doctor, can also help alleviate muscle tension and promote blood flow to the injured area, which is crucial for healing.

If the pain persists or worsens, or if you experience additional symptoms such as swelling, bruising, or difficulty moving your arms, it would be wise to consult with an orthopedic specialist. They can perform a more thorough examination and may recommend advanced imaging techniques, such as an MRI, to assess soft tissue injuries more accurately.

Regarding your concern about the impact on your fitness routine, it is crucial to listen to your body. Engaging in exercises that exacerbate your pain can lead to further injury. It may be beneficial to modify your workout regimen temporarily, focusing on low-impact activities that do not strain your chest area. Once your pain subsides and you regain strength, you can gradually reintroduce more strenuous exercises, ensuring that you maintain proper form to prevent future injuries.

In conclusion, while the initial assessment suggests a soft tissue injury, ongoing pain warrants further evaluation. Recovery may take time, and patience is key. Prioritize rest, follow your doctor's advice, and consider physical therapy to facilitate a safe return to your fitness routine. If symptoms persist, do not hesitate to seek further medical advice.

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