Intercostal neuralgia is often treated with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), tricyclic antidepressants or neuropathic pain medications. Heat or cold can also be applied to the area. If patients do not respond to these conservative measures, intercostal nerve blocks can be performed. For these procedures, patients will generally lie on their stomach. The affected area will be visualized with an X-ray. A mixture consisting of a local anesthetic and steroid will be injected below the affected ribs, close to the affected intercostal nerves.
