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Is there a link between the MS Hug (tightness under the rib cage) and COPD?

  1. Hi Leajayse and thank you for your question! I wanted to share this article I found on our sister-site MultipleSclerosis.net that discusses the link between MS and chronic lung conditions: https://multiplesclerosis.net/living-with-ms/ms-and-asthma/ While I can't say for sure there's a link between the MS hug and COPD or COPD-related rib cramping, I encourage you to speak with your doctor or pulmonologist about this to rule anything out. I hope this helps! Thanks for being here with us. - Alesandra (COPD.net Team)

    1. Many thanks for your reply.

      1. No problem, Leajayse! If you'd like, feel free to read more about COPD rib cramping here: https://copd.net/living/community-feedback-rib-cramping/ - Alesandra (COPD.net Team)

      2. Thanks for the article. Not it's not rib cramping nor spasms. It's just like a tight belt under my ribs which is with me permanently and appeared suddenly after falling. Many people have it, from my research and no one has found an answer, including apparently, the doctors.The belt is now accompanied by my back burning but only when I stand up or sit up. Lying down or in a recliner, nothing except the belt.

    2. I get rib cramping on my left side mostly. It is part of COPD I deal with. I find doing upper body stretches with slow movements similar to Chi- Che. ( not sure of spelling so...sound it out. Lol) will alleviate the cramping and pain that accompanies it for awhile. I repeat as often as needed.

      1. Hi HeidiMc and thanks for sharing what you have had success with when managing the COPD-related rib cramps. Others may read what you wrote and get ideas for themselves moving forward.
        We appreciate your input and are glad to have you as a member of this community.
        Leon (site moderator)

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