If you are talking about that pain over the ribs, sometimes into the back muscles, that feels like a muscle spasm, there is a whole thread on here about that. Seems to be quite prevalent with COPD people. That particular pain will cause one to scream on occasions and certainly cuss on others.

Have you thought about wind, we are always sucking air in one way or another and I find I have pains caused by inhaling a lot I know it sounds harsh but I take I half spoon of bicarbonate soda ( baking soda ) with a little warm water stir in and you will be surprised how much gas you get rid of and yes it dosint taste nice but it does get rid of some of the pains it's worth a try as you have nothing to lose hope you all have a good day Dorothy hartlepool UK

I have that pain in ribs on left side, drs don't know why I also have osteoarthritis and fibromyalgia

Update: My husband found out 2 things about his rib and (later) back pain. He has 7 compression fractures in his spine and a kidney stone! CT scan and MRI showed an old broken rib, the fractures have healed enough he does not need a procedure to 'glue' them. I am not sure he could have been put to sleep, so we are happy with this news. Kidney stone may have passed but we are not sure.

Hi MaeB....bit late as I missed this but if you go to my profile you might find something that might be similar to your hubby's issues..