My husband woke up with pain on both his sides were his ribs are. this has never happened to him he took pain pills & went away what can be the cause?

Need more info: If the pain went away with simple OTC pain medicine and he has no breathing problems then the chances are it was muscle spasm or something called intercostal neuralgia. In any event these conditions are benign. Exercise, heavy garden work are a couple of the simple causes of his complaint. If the pain should return ir would be prudent to have him see his family physician.

Pinched Nerve/Muscle: Most times back pain that is sudden onset will resolve. He should use anti-inflammatory meds like ibuprofen, aleve around the clock and even tylenol (acetaminophen) to help. If this does not resolve he should see his doctor for a muscle relaxant as well. If it still does not resolve, i would recommend him to see a spine specialist for a full evaluation and testing. He may need to get an MRI to see inside.