Broken Ribs
Broken Ribs Causes
Broken ribs are typically caused by a trauma to the chest. Some factors that can fracture the ribs are: trauma from a fall, vehicular accidents, or impact during contact sports. Milder strains may also cause broken ribs, particularly when the patient has an existing condition that weakens the bones or cause bone density loss such as osteoporosis.
Broken Ribs Definition
Broken ribs pertain to a common injury wherein the bones in the rib cage breaks, fractures, or cracks.
Broken Ribs Diagnosis
Treatment for broken ribs is mostly focused on managing pain and symptoms until the fracture fully heals. Self-care measures such as resting, applying ice to reduce pain and swelling, and taking over-the-counter pain medications are also recommended. Sometimes, compression wraps or elastic bandages are wrapped around to chest to immobilize the area. In general, fractured ribs heal in about 1-2 months.
Broken Ribs Symptoms and Signs
A basic sign of broken ribs is extreme pain in the chest area, particularly when inhaling or taking a deep breath and pressing the injured area. The pain usually worsens when the patients, bends, twists, or moves.
Broken Ribs Treatment
Treatment for broken ribs is mostly focused on managing pain and symptoms until the fracture fully heals. Self-care measures such as resting, applying ice to reduce pain and swelling, and taking over-the-counter pain medications are also recommended. Sometimes, compression wraps or elastic bandages are wrapped around to chest to immobilize the area. In general, fractured ribs heal in about 1-2 months.