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Rib fractures are often caused by trauma to the chest and can be very painful, but usually not life-threatening. They are more common in adults and the elderly, and can be diagnosed through a physical exam and X-ray. Most heal on their own within four to six weeks, with rest and pain medication. Surgery is reserved for severe cases.
A rib fracture occurs when one of the bones that protect the lungs breaks or cracks. These fractures are often the result of trauma to the chest, such as a car accident, fall, or sports injury. Rib fractures are often very painful, but are usually not life-threatening unless the broken rib damages other internal tissues or organs.
Rib fractures are more common in adults than in children, and the elderly are most at risk. Children’s bones are more flexible than adults’ bones, and trauma to the chest area is more likely to damage internal tissues and organs than breaking a rib. Children who have a fractured rib are usually victims of extremely severe chest trauma and often suffer extensive damage to the heart, lungs, and other organs. Older people with weakened bones due to osteoporosis or other conditions can break a rib just by coughing hard.
It’s important for people to see a doctor after trauma to the chest, particularly if they suspect a rib fracture. The pain from this injury can range from mild to severe and can be worse when you breathe deeply. Pain around the rib fracture, when the breastbone is pushed down, is another common sign. A doctor can perform a thorough physical exam, which usually includes an X-ray of the chest area, to determine if and where a fracture exists and to diagnose any problems with internal organs, blood vessels, or other tissues.
Most rib fractures heal on their own within four to six weeks. Patients are generally advised to rest as much as possible during the healing process and avoid any activity that causes pain or makes breathing difficult. Pain medications, including over-the-counter and prescription drugs, can help relieve pain and swelling. Epidural anesthesia can be given through a small tube inserted into the spine to numb the pain, although this is typically reserved for patients with severe pain that doesn’t improve with oral medications.
Using ice packs on the injured area for 10 to 15 minutes at a time, several times a day, can help relieve swelling and pain. Taking deep breaths or coughing at least once an hour can help prevent pneumonia, a collapsed lung, and other lung complications. Because deep breathing is so important, rib fracture patients should not tap or wrap the chest area during the healing period.
Surgery to repair broken ribs is usually reserved for severe fractures involving multiple ribs or a complete break. A surgeon can repair broken ribs with surgical plates and screws to hold the bone together and allow for natural healing in the event of a severe fracture. You may need surgery to repair internal organs and tissues if they have been damaged due to a broken rib.
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