Intercostal muscle weakness
Lack of strength of the intercostal muscles, i.e., of the muscle groups running along the ribs that create and move the chest wall.
Also called: Muscle weakness between ribs, Dependence on diaphragmatic breathing.
Conditions associated with intercostal muscle weakness
The following conditions have been associated with intercostal muscle weakness in medical literature. This is informational and not a diagnosis.
Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease axonal type 2C
Autosomal dominant Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 2C (CMT2C) is a form of axonal Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease...
Congenital fiber-type disproportion myopathy
Congenital fiber-type disproportion myopathy is a medical condition that may be associated with various sympto...
Laminin subunit alpha 2-related congenital muscular dystrophy
Laminin subunit alpha 2-related congenital muscular dystrophy is a medical condition that may be associated wi...
Proximal spinal muscular atrophy
Proximal spinal muscular atrophy is a medical condition that may be associated with various symptoms and signs...
Tests providers may use to investigate intercostal muscle weakness
When investigating intercostal muscle weakness, a healthcare provider may order one or more of the following laboratory tests. Test selection is a clinical decision made by a qualified professional.
CBC with Differential
Measures red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets to help evaluate overall health and detect disorder...
Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)
Measures 14 substances in the blood to assess kidney and liver function, electrolyte balance, and blood sugar ...
Urinalysis
Examines urine content to help detect urinary tract infections, kidney disease, and diabetes....
Symptoms commonly seen alongside intercostal muscle weakness
Constipation
Infrequent or difficult evacuation of feces....
Dysphagia
Difficulty in swallowing....
Fatigue
A subjective feeling of tiredness characterized by a lack of energy and motivation....
Headache
Cephalgia, or pain sensed in various parts of the head, not confined to the area of distribution of any nerve....
Muscle weakness
Reduced strength of muscles....
Seizure
A seizure is an intermittent abnormality of nervous system physiology characterized by a transient occurrence ...
When to seek care
Seek care from a qualified healthcare provider if intercostal muscle weakness is severe, persistent, worsening, or accompanied by concerning symptoms. If you think you have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the symptom intercostal muscle weakness mean?
Intercostal muscle weakness is a health sign or symptom described in medical literature. Lack of strength of the intercostal muscles, i.e., of the muscle groups running along the ribs that create and move the chest wall.
Which conditions are associated with intercostal muscle weakness?
Intercostal muscle weakness has been reported in association with 4 conditions in the medical literature we index, including Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease axonal type 2C, Congenital fiber-type disproportion myopathy, Laminin subunit alpha 2-related congenital muscular dystrophy, Proximal spinal muscular atrophy. These associations do not mean you have any of these conditions.
Should I see a doctor about intercostal muscle weakness?
You should discuss any persistent or concerning symptoms with a qualified healthcare provider. This website does not provide diagnosis. If you have severe symptoms or signs of a medical emergency, seek care immediately.