What should you know about psoriatic arthritis rib pain?

Psoriatic arthritis can affect joints between the ribs and spine or breastbone, as well as nearby tendon attachments. Pain may feel localised along the chest wall, back or breastbone and can be worse with twisting, reaching, coughing or a deep breath. Morning stiffness or other swollen, painful joints may provide a clue to an inflammatory pattern. Rib pain can also result from muscle strain, injury, infection, lung problems or heart problems, so location alone cannot identify the cause.

Record when the pain began, what movement or breathing does to it, and whether you have fever, cough, rash or joint symptoms. Avoid heavy lifting and forceful stretching until the cause is clearer. Arrange a clinical assessment if pain persists, returns or occurs with morning stiffness. A clinician may examine your chest wall, spine and other joints before discussing [Psoriatic Arthritis](/conditions/psoriatic-arthritis/) or [Anti-Inflammatory Medication](/treatments/non-surgical-orthopedics/anti-inflammatory-medication/).

Seek emergency help for chest pain with breathlessness, fainting, cold sweat, nausea, blue lips or pain spreading to the arm, jaw or back. Get prompt medical advice for fever, coughing blood, sudden severe pain or pain after significant injury. Do not wait for a routine arthritis appointment when these features are present.

Does the examination suggest chest-wall inflammation or another cause? Should I pause particular activities? What symptoms should send me to emergency care? Could [Physiotherapy](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/physiotherapy/) help after urgent causes are excluded?