Chest-wall disease covers any problem with the ribs, cartilage, muscles, or skin of the thorax. Because these structures move every time you breathe, even small issues can feel big.

Localized pain is the headline. It stabs, aches, or burns at one spot and gets worse when you inhale, cough, sneeze, roll over, or push on the area.

Tenderness to finger pressure is typical. You can point to the exact rib or cartilage with one finger.

Visible or palpable lump may appear. Examples include a rib fracture callus, a bulging abscess, or the hard knob of Tietze syndrome.

Swelling and bruising show up quickly after injury, while redness and warmth suggest infection.

Movement limitation follows. You take shallow breaths, avoid heavy lifting, or sleep on the other side to keep the hurt spot still.

Late alarms include fever, pus drainage, or pain that lasts months—clues the problem has become chronic or complicated.