Broken rib

A broken rib, or rib fracture, is a break in a rib. The fracture line usually occurs in the middle section of the rib and is a direct result of an accident (trauma).

The rib cage consists of twelve (sometimes thirteen) ribs on each side. They are attached at the back to the spine and at the front to the breastbone, with the exception of the floating ribs. All ribs curve from back to front.

How does a broken rib occur?

In general, direct trauma causes a rib fracture. This can happen from a blow or collision to the rib cage or a fall on a hard surface.

What increases the risk of a broken rib?

The risk of a broken rib increases when bone quality decreases. This can be the result of osteoporosis, the medical term for bone demineralization, or cancer metastases in bone. In these specific conditions, the bone becomes so weakened that even a poke, hard laughter, or coughing can cause a rib to break.

Symptoms of a broken rib

Severe, usually sharp pain is the most characteristic symptom of a broken rib. This pain may worsen during deep breathing, sighing, sneezing, or coughing. In addition, pain increases when lying on the affected side, and there is tenderness over the broken rib. The surrounding tissue may also be painful to touch.

It is not always easy to feel whether there is a broken or a bruised rib. Both are very painful.

A broken rib increases the risk of a collapsed lung

The structure of the rib cage provides important protection for vital organs such as the lungs and heart. Sharp bone fragments from a rib fracture can damage the pleura. This damage can cause a collapsed lung. Shortness of breath and increasing pain point to this.

How is a broken rib diagnosed?

A broken rib can often be diagnosed based on the description of the trauma and the findings of the physical examination. Confirmation is almost always required with a chest röntgenfoto. This also provides an opportunity to visualize a possible collapsed lung.

A CT scan or MRI is sometimes used to assess the severity of the fracture. In more severe trauma’s, these studies also examine whether other organs are damaged and to what extent.

Treatment of a broken rib

Only in rare cases is surgery necessary. During such surgery, the broken rib is fixed with metal plates. Without surgery, most rib fractures heal on average within six to eight weeks.

In non-surgical treatment, it is important during recovery to perform breathing exercises and adhere to strict lifestyle measures. Consider precautions such as using a pillow to support coughing and sneezing. The physical therapist is ideally suited to support this recovery process.

The physical therapist can also help relieve symptoms with medical taping and mobilizing exercises.