Can coughing tear an intercostal muscle?

Yes: It's not uncommon to strain or partially tear an intercostal muscle while coughing . Rest and time should heal this. If pain persists, see your physician.

Unusual: In general, coughing is not going to tear your intercostal muscles. That would be unusual. Following major chest surgery, we encourage deep breathing and coughing. Prolonged and vigorous coughing can cause musculoskeletal strain and chest wall soreness. In rare and extreme cases, individuals are reported to have broken ribs by coughing.