Ida
I have it almost continuously. It is painful. I can't imagine what your child must feel like for that is a lot of pain for him to feel at 8 years of age. Look up Costocondritis on the web. This will give you information. A non-steroidal antiinflammatory would help. Have him rest with a pillow under his knees (a flat type bed pillow, not too high) and roll a towel or washcloth and place it under his neck. Talking really aggrivates this condition, because one is moving the rib cage and surrounding tissue, etc. and it aggravates the condition. If you can get an 8 year old to remain quiet for 3 to 5 days, the flare-up will calm down. Unfortunately, there isn't much that can be done, as far as I know.But I'd definitely get a second opinion from another doctor if you have already contacted your doctor. Good luck and tell your little boy good luck, too.