The most common cause of pain below the left rib cage is inflammation of the rib cartilage or intercostal neuralgia, mainly after exertion, external exposure to wind, cold or dampness or trauma or sprain. The pain can be radiated to the anterior and posterior regions of the chest and back, and can be severe and induced by deep breathing, with significant localized pressure pain. The best treatment for this symptom is to apply topical fotarine ointment or hot towels or hot water bags to reduce the pain. For more severe pain, you can also take oral non-steroidal anti-inflammatory and analgesic drugs, such as Nimesulide dispersible tablets or Xilabao capsules. Secondly, it may be an early manifestation of herpes zoster. Local neuralgia may occur early in the course of herpes zoster, mainly in the form of tingling and burning pain.