Xyphoid Process

BarbiHollywood · ‎11-09-2011

Has anyone heard of Xyphoid Process? It's a very small, fairly sharp triangular-shaped bony structure at the base of the sternum. I am trying to figure out if mine is inflamed due to arthritis or some sort of muscle strain. When I wear a bra, the pressure of the band seems to aggravate this. I feel perfect not wearing one. Doc had me get all sorts of $$$ tests to rule out anything serious. Thankfully, all is well. In a final attempt to rule out something serious, she is having me get a CT of my heart (arteries, etc.) but all labs and such show everythng is normal and I'm on a 15 mg meloxicam for a few days to help with inflammation. It's such a weird thing, surely I'm not the only one to experience this. Anyone else out there??

FranandZoe · ‎03-09-2010

I had never heard of it until about 6 years ago. I felt a lump in that area and had it checked out. All kinds of tests, x-rays, etc. same as you. My dr said it became more pronounced since I had lost a lot of weight. Good luck to you.

SilleeMee · ‎05-22-2016

I learned about the xiphoid process when I learned how to do CPR...avoid pressing down on it when you do chest compressions.

msgb · ‎08-30-2010

Due to fibromyalgia and costochondritis I have heard of this. Yes it can be painful with those issues as well.

Hope that you feel better soon and that all is good.

chrystaltree · ‎05-10-2010

I have heard of it. Inflammation in that area does happen, I have seen it in medical records. I think sometimes it's the result of chest trauma. They prescribe anti-inflammatory meds and pain meds.

BarbiHollywood · ‎11-09-2011

@FranandZoe wrote:
I had never heard of it until about 6 years ago. I felt a lump in that area and had it checked out. All kinds of tests, x-rays, etc. same as you. My dr said it became more pronounced since I had lost a lot of weight. Good luck to you.

@FranandZoe I had a feeling someone on here would know!! There are so many knowledgeable people on these forums. Thank you so much for your good wishes. It's a very annoying discomfort when it acts up.

BarbiHollywood · ‎11-09-2011

@msgb wrote:
Due to fibromyalgia and costochondritis I have heard of this. Yes it can be painful with those issues as well.
Hope that you feel better soon and that all is good.

@msgb Thank you for your good wishes.

BarbiHollywood · ‎11-09-2011

@chrystaltree wrote:
I have heard of it. Inflammation in that area does happen, I have seen it in medical records. I think sometimes it's the result of chest trauma. They prescribe anti-inflammatory meds and pain meds.

@chrystaltree I'm very surprised some of you have heard of it -- I hadn't. You are correct - anti-inflammatories are prescribed. I'm currently on meloxicam which has helped. Gone are the days of wearing underwire bras -- how annoying are those??!! I'm guessing my recent trip to Disney World with my niece and her two young kids is the cause -- I pushed a double stroller all day and occasionally picked up and held her two-year-old. Probably overdid it and have been paying the price.