It starts with a sharp catch in your chest when you laugh, or perhaps a dull ache that lingers every time you take a deep breath. If you have ever strained the muscles  between your ribs, known as the intercostal muscles, you know that it can be a frightening and uncomfortable experience. Because these muscles help your chest expand and contract, nearly every movement can feel like a reminder of the injury. Let’s walk through what the intercostal muscles do, why strains happe

If you’ve ever stretched your arms or back and heard a little “pop” or “crack” in your chest, it can be a little disconcerting and make...