The cause of costochondritis is not known. However, it commonly occurs after various injuries or conditions, including:

• Blunt chest trauma. Can include sudden force to the chest, such as from an automobile or sports accident.  Injury leading to rib fracture can also cause this problem.

• Persistent coughing. Such as that characteristic of chronic pulmonary (lung) diseases or acute respiratory infections.
  
  
• Overuse of the upper body (e.g., shoulder, arm). May result from activities such as window washing, painting or using improper lifting methods.
  
  
• Chest surgery (e.g., cardiac surgery)
  
  
• Extreme scoliosis, osteoporosis or spinal arthritis. These can cause pressure on the costochondral joints, causing costochondritis.