I have a painful lump on left rib that has been there for over a year and it hurts the whole left side of my back dr done ct & x-ray can't find anyth

Biopsy?: If you actually have a visible or palpable lump then it does not matter whether something appears or not on imaging studies. This may be a nerve tumor (neuroma), or other abnormality, but before speculating further would need more info and an exam. Suggest that you ask your doctor for a consult with a thoracic surgeon who may have seen more of these than your physician.