Rib Fracture

A complete or incomplete fracture of any of the 12 ribs on either side. Most rib fractures are accompanied by sprain or rupture of muscles, tendons or ligaments between the ribs (intercostal structures). Rib fractures are relatively common injuries in athletes, particularly those who compete in contact sports.

Body Parts Involved

• Anyone or several of the 12 ribs.
• Soft tissue surrounding the fracture site, including nerves, tendons, ligaments, cartilage and blood vessels.

Causes

• Direct blow to the chest from a blunt object, such as an arm or elbow.
• Compression of the chest, as when a player falls on his side with a ball or helmet between him and the ground, or when a player is crushed in a pileup.

Signs & Symptoms

• Severe pain at the fracture site.
• Tenderness to the touch.
• A feeling that the "wind has been knocked out" (sometimes).
• Abdominal pain if the fractured ribs are below the diaphragm (the 11th and 12th ribs).
• Severe chest pain when coughing, sneezing or breathing deeply.
• A feeling of small air pockets under the skin of the chest or neck if the lung has been injured and leaked air.
• Swelling and bruising over the fracture site.

Treatment

Note:- Follow your doctor's instructions. These instructions are supplemental.

First Aid

With uncomplicated rib fractures, no first aid is necessary. If injury to the lung, liver or spleen is suspected, transport the player to the nearest emergency facility.

Continuing Care

• Use the binder or wrap as long as needed for pain and support-usually 4 to 6 weeks.
• Use an ice pack 3'or 4 times a day. Place chips in a plastic bag. Wrap the bag in a moist towel and place over the injured area. Use for 20 minutes at a time.
• After 2 or 3 days, if heat is more soothing than ice, use heat lamps, hot soaks, hot showers or heating pads.

Medication

• For minor discomfort, you may use:

Aspirin, acetaminophen or ibuprofen.

Topical liniments and ointments.

• Your doctor may prescribe:

Stronger pain relievers.

Injection of long-acting local anesthesia into the fracture site to reduce pain and allow normal breathing (sometimes).

Home Diet

During recovery, eat a well-balanced diet that includes extra protein, such as meat, fish, poultry, cheese, milk and eggs. Increase fiber and fluid intake to prevent constipation that may result from decreased activity.

Diagnostic Measures

• Your own observation of symptoms.
• Medical history and exam by a doctor.
• X-rays of the ribs and vertebral column. Early may not show fractures if they are not led, but repeat X-rays taken 4 or more days later usually reveal them. The early treatment for an uncomplicated rib fracture is
  the same as for bruised ribs, so a delay in diagnosis does not hinder treatment.

Prevention Tips

No specific preventive measures. The chance of reinjury can be minimized by using a chest support or binder that has a rigid pad in it to prevent a direct below to the injured area.