Question:
Any suggestions for this sharp pain near rib area?

I am two months out and a just started having this sharp, tight pain near my rib area. I was getting up off the floor when it started. It seems to happen when I turn my torso or bend. When I press in the area, I do not feel anything and nothing is protruding. Does anyone have any idea what this might be? If it doesn't go away, I will call my surgeon, I just hoped someone might have a suggestion. Thank you!    — Rebecca C. (posted on February 1, 2002)

February 1, 2002
I have not yet had surgery (scheduled on Mar 4, 2002) but my wife had surgery last April. The first several months she was having some rather sharp pains near her rib cage that sounds similar to what you are describing. It bothered her after bending over or turning a certain way. She asked the surgeon about it and he said that when they put the retracter in it can bruise and stretch along the lower part of the ribs, and is especially a problem for shorter patients (not as much room to work around in, But don't tell my wife I called her short). He said it wasn't anything serious and it would go away after several months and it has. I would still recommend that you ask your Dr. about it, though.
   — Dell H.