A Broken Rib is a break in a rib bone. Frequently, bruised muscles and ligaments accompany a Broken Rib. There are 24 ribs, twelve on each side of the body. The ribs protect the heart and lungs.
Causes of a Broken Rib
A direct blow to the rib
Crushing of the chest, such as in contact sports or a car accident
Severe coughing incidents that can occur with lung problems or at high altitude
Who is at risk for a Broken Rib
Playing contact sports
Weak bones
Chronic cough
Extreme repetitive upper body activity (less common), such as in: throwing athletes,
Basketball players, Golfers, Rowers and Weight lifters
Occupations involving a lot of overhead lifting
Symptoms of a Broken Rib
Pain in the ribs or upper chest area
Pain when coughing
Swelling and bruising in the fracture area
Severe local tenderness in the fracture area
Internal bleeding
Pain while breathing in
Diagnosis of a Broken Rib
The doctor will ask about your symptoms and how the injury occurred, and examine your chest, lungs and back.
Tests may include:
Chest X-ray ? an x-ray of the chest to check for fractures and any lung damage
CT Scan ? a type of x-ray that uses a computer to make pictures of structures inside the chest
MRI Scan ? a test that uses magnetic waves to make pictures of structures inside the chest
Treatment of a Broken Rib
Rest
Rest and do not do physical activity until the pain has subsided.
Protection
Your doctor may suggest wearing a chest binder around your ribs to protect them and help you breathe properly. It is important to take some good breaths so that the lungs remain clear. If you play contact sports, you may need to wear a rib cage protector for 6-8 weeks when you return to playing.
Medication
Your doctor may recommend that you take one of the following drugs to help reduce inflammation and pain:
Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil)
Naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn)
Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
Aspirin
Physical Therapy
As your ribs heal, a physical therapist can teach you breathing exercises and help you maintain range of motion in arm and shoulder joints.
Hospitalization
Hospitalization is only needed if there are complications such as damage to organs in the chest.
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