Conversation: The conversation between human and AI assistant.
[|Human|] I am a weightlifter and I recently did vertical leg presses. After which, I noticed a little soreness and pain in my lower left rib cage. I went to an urgent care and they diagnosed it as costochondritis. The doctor said it was an inflammed cartilage due to the pressure of the weights (my legs/knees were pressed against my rib cage).. I was wondering if that s true, or if it could be a problem with my spleen or maybe a hernia.
[|AI|]  Hello, Thank you for contacting us at "Ask a Doctor". I will try to answer your questions the best of my ability. I have reviewed your questions, and it is certainly possible that you have a so-called Costco Chat Doctor.  The other possibility would be a simple intercostal muscle strain in the same region.  If you not have any swelling present then this is very unlikely to be something like a hernia.  Also, spleen problems do not present in this way, and so this would also be very unlikely. I think at this time it will be sensible to avoid any lifting.  You can certainly take over-the-counter remedies such as ibuprofen or Tylenol if it is particularly painful.  A local application of ice in the form of a bag of crushed ice applied for about 10 min. 4 or 5 times a day, would certainly help.  I would continue with this approach for the next 5-7 days.  If after this time, your symptoms are worse, or you have developed any new symptoms I would certainly consult with your primary care physician.  At this time I do not see the need for further tests or x-rays, et cetera.  I feel confident that this condition will settle in due course. I hope this information is helpful.  Please don't hesitate to contact me again if you have any further questions. Best wishes, A