Sternum (Breastbone): What It Is, Where It Is & Anatomy

What does it mean when your sternum hurts?Many issues with your sternum and its surrounding bones and muscles can cause sternum pain. In addition, you may experience substernal pain — discomfort that occurs below or behind your sternum. This type of pain is usually due to gastrointestinal conditions. Some common causes of sternum or substernal pain include:Costochondritis.Pectus carinatum.Sternum (sternal) fracture.Sternoclavicular joint injury.Collarbone injury.Muscle strain.Hiatal hernia.Acid reflux.Pleurisy.Bronchitis.Pneumonia.CostochondritisCostochondritis is a condition that causes inflammation in the cartilage that attaches your ribs to your sternum. An infection, injury or arthritis can cause the condition. Costochondritis causes sharp, stabbing rib pain and tenderness. You usually feel it in your sternal area and the first three sets of ribs, but it can spread to your arms and shoulders. You may also notice warmth and tenderness in the area.Pectus carinatumPectus carinatum is...