Prevention

The following tips may prevent chest problems or injuries.

• Stay in good overall physical shape. Do stretching and range-of-motion (ROM) exercises for your arms and shoulders.
• Maintain good posture. Stand straight and relaxed, without slumping.
• Warm up well and stretch before any activity.
• Wear protective gear during contact sports or recreational activities, such as hockey or football.
• Wear your seat belt when in a motor vehicle.
• Make sure your child's backpack is the right size with good support. Carrying heavy backpacks may increase his or her risk of chest problems or injury.

Preparing For Your Appointment

To prepare for your appointment, see the topic Making the Most of Your Appointment.

You can help your doctor diagnose and treat your condition by being prepared to answer the following questions:

• When did the chest pain begin?
  • How long does the pain last?
  • How often does the pain occur?
  • How severe is the pain?
  • What does the pain feel like?
  • Where is the pain located?
• What were you doing when it started? Is the pain related to activity? Is it related to eating? Is it related to body position?
• Does the pain start in the chest and spread to another part of the body? Or does it start somewhere else and spread to the chest?
• Did you have other symptoms with the chest pain? What are the other symptoms?
• Has this ever happened before? If so, did you see a doctor?
  • What was the diagnosis?
  • What tests were done?
  • How was it treated?
• Have you had a chest injury or a fall?
  • How and when did an injury occur?
  • Have you had any chest injuries in the past? Do you have any continuing problems because of the previous injury?
• What activities make your symptoms better or worse?
• What home treatment have you tried to relieve the pain? Did it help?
• What nonprescription medicines have you taken? Did they help?
• Do you have any health risks?