Brats & Beer

The Chest Needs More Rest

Here's where it hurts, doc

When A.J. Hawk went to the sideline during the first pre-season game, I figured it was just the Green Bay coaching staff being extra cautious with a valuable player. However, the starting linebacker has missed three weeks of action now due to what Mike McCarthy called a “chest sprain.” The proper medical term, according to Wikipedia, is costochondritis or Tietze’s syndrome, an inflammation of the cartilage where the ribs meet the breastbone. The Mayo Clinic web site suggests anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen, as well as muscle relaxants, can be used to treat costochondritis, but the best way to heal the inflammation is through rest, excersize, and use of a heating pad. (I hope you’re taking notes, there may be a quiz later.)

On Hawk’s condition, McCarthy said Sunday his starter is “progressing very nicely … He’s getting his strength and everything back. We will not play him this week, and we’re hopeful he’ll be ready for Minnesota also.” Keep popping those ibuprofen, A.J., and let Laura worry about bringing those boxes up from the basement. We need you on the field Sept. 8, not on the sideline.

In other injury news, the Press-Gazette is reporting that Josh Sitton’s condition is worse than originally thought. The rookie lineman suffered a sprained MCL in Friday’s game against Denver and could miss four weeks. That means Tony Moll could be your opening day starter at right guard. And the revolving door continues.

James Jones, who also suffered a knee injury in Denver, could be back in the lineup for the opening of regular season action — at least that’s what he says. You have to be impressed with the kid that he’s upbeat about the situation, even spinning the injury as a positive: “It’s going to help me out and make my knee stronger. My legs will be a little fresh, and I can get out there and make some plays.” Keep giving me that that kool-aid, James, and I’ll keep drinking it.