A good and at the same time simple way to test whether the pain is related to Tietze or Costochondritis can be done in the following manner. Press carefully but with some force on the painful spot near the sternum or the rib. If the pain gets much worse, there is a good chance that it is Tietze and/or costochondritis. If the pain is related to the heart, the pain would not get worse when pressure is applied, as it is well protected behind the ribs in the chest.
The following self test can help to detect some of the symptoms of the affliction. If the majority of the questions can be answered with YES, it most likely is Tietze or costochondritis
| Symptoms | Yes | No |
| Sharp pain near the sternum | ||
| Sharp pain near the ribs, collar bone or spine | ||
| Pain gets worse when pressed upon | ||
| Pain gets worse when chest and ribs are exerted | ||
| Swelling of the cartilage under the sternum | ||
| Sensitivity of the cartilage of the sternum and ribs | ||
| Discolouration of the skin near the painful spot(s) | ||
| Just given birth | ||
| Recently put much stress on the chest | ||
| Frequently exerting the chest by coughing or sneezing |
Always consult you doctor for further examination, further information and tests
