My chest is tense and sometimes it "pops". What the f?

Question

The area around my chest like the bone right in the center is very tense sometimes, when i move a certain way. And if i like sort of turn my shoulder forward and to the inside it kind of pops like popping your knuckles but it's a lot smaller and quieter. It kind of hurts to do it but it is kind of a habit now. Why is my chest like that? I think its pretty recent...I think it might be how i am sleeping but i'm not sleeping weird or anything

I also smoke about one cigarette a day. thats about it on medical history..

Answer 1

This is a condition called costochondritis - which is inflammation of the ligaments that attach the ribs to the sternum, or loosened ligaments that allow a rib to slip slightly out of place. The cause of this is generally unknown, and it seems to spontaneously appear and disappear. Ibuprofen, stretching, and avoidance of sleeping on your side are some things that may alleviate the problem.

Answer 2

You should check with your doctor.That is kind of weird but there is some people that any bone pops in their body. I want to tell you something, you said that you smoke a cigarette a day why even smoke then I think that you should not waste your time in smoking that cigarette it's just a waste of time. Good luck and you should find something else instead of turning on a cigarette.

Answer 3

Cracking your sternum, just like cracking your knuckles, a lot of people can do this including 2 members of my family. I don't think it's harmful.

I don't think this is the same as costochondritis either. With Costochondritis, there is pain. With the cracking sternum, there usually isn't any real pain.