Rib Fracture (Broken Rib; Fracture, Rib)

Tests may include:Chest x-rayan x-ray of the chest to check for fractures and any lung damage CT scana type of x-ray that uses a computer to make pictures of structures inside the chest MRI scana test that uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to make pictures of structures inside the chest TreatmentTreatment includes: RestRest and do not do physical activity until the pain has gone away. ProtectionYour doctor may suggest wearing a chest binder around your ribs to protect them. The binder will also help you breathe properly. It is very important to take some good breaths so that the lungs remain clear. Pneumonia can develop after rib fractures if you are not breathing deeply enough. 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 TherapyAs your ribs heal, a physical therapist can teach you breathing exercises. She can also help you maintain range of motion in arm and shoulder joints. Intercostal Nerve BlocksSpecial injections with local anesthetic can temporarily relieve pain.

Epidural AnesthesiaSometimes a temporary epidural catheter is used to place anesthetic near the spinal cord and nerves. This can help severe cases. This is usually done for hospitalized patients. HospitalizationHospitalization is usually only needed if there are complications such as damage to chest organs in the chest. Prevention Sometimes rib fractures cannot be prevented. To reduce your chance of fracturing a rib: Wear protective equipment, such as rib pads, when playing contact sports.Avoid over-training.Learn the proper technique for exercise and sporting activities. Maintain strong bones by: Getting plenty of calcium in your diet Doing weight-bearing exerciseNot smoking RESOURCES: American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeonshttp://www.aaos.org/ Trauma.orghttp://www.trauma.org/ CANADIAN RESOURCES: Canadian Orthopaedic Associationhttp://www.coa-aco.org/ Canadian Orthopaedic Foundationhttp://www.canorth.org/ References: Boden BP, Osbahr DC, Jimenez C. Low-risk stress fractures. Am J Sports Med. 2001;29:100-111. Fractures. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons website. Available at: http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00097. Updated October 2007. Accessed June 18, 2008.

Gregoretti C, et al. Regional anesthesia in trauma patients. Anesthesiol Clin. 2007;25(1):99-116. Marx J, Hockberger R, Walls R. Rosen's Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. 6th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Mosby Elsevier; 2006. O'Kane J. Delayed complication of a rib fracture. Phys Sportsmed. 1998;26:69. Rib fractures. National Guideline Clearinghouse website. Available at: http://www.guideline.gov/summary/summary.aspx?ss=15&doc_id=7062&nbr=4251 . Accessed October 14, 2005. Last reviewed January 2008 by John C. Keel, MDPlease be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.