Rib fractures how long to heal

A good percentage of rib fractures will heal on their own, especially if the ribs are in alignment. For ongoing pain that doesn't seem to be improving, persistent shortness of breath with activities you didn't previously have shortness of breath, or if you haven't returned to normal daily activities after several months, it may be time to seek additional medical help.

If you're feeling ongoing clicking, popping, or movement at the fracture site — even if it comes and goes with various activities — see a doctor for further evaluation. Yes, there are surgical interventions for rib fractures. These may depend on your situation and if the injury is in conjunction with other issues like nerve or muscle damage. A doctor will often take a look inside the chest cavity to ensure the lung is not trapped in the fracture as that can cause ongoing pain.

The diaphragm is also examined to make sure there is no injury to it. An operative option includes reducing the rib fractures and placing a titanium plate across the fracture.

These plates can be placed on the inside of the rib or the outside, depending on their location. The plates are held in place with titanium screws. What are the symptoms? A fractured rib may cause: Mild to severe pain in the injured area.

Pain when you breathe. Pain around the fracture when someone pushes on your breastbone. If you can't breathe normally because of your injuries, you may: Feel short of breath. Feel anxious, restless, or scared. Have a headache. Feel dizzy, tired, or sleepy. How is a fractured rib diagnosed? Your doctor will ask questions about your injury and do a physical exam. The doctor may: Push on your chest to find out where you are hurt. Watch you breathe and listen to your lungs to make sure air is moving in and out normally.

Listen to your heart. Check your head, neck, spine, and belly to make sure there are no other injuries. How is it treated? To help manage the pain while the fracture heals: Put ice on the injured area. Get extra rest. Take pain medicine such as ibuprofen or naproxen. Your doctor may prescribe a stronger pain medicine if over-the-counter medicines don't work.

Pulmonary trauma. It could mean a broken rib has damaged something else, like your lung, liver or spleen. Page last reviewed: 05 January Next review due: 05 January Broken or bruised ribs. Check if you have a bruised or broken rib Broken or bruised ribs are usually caused by a fall, a blow to the chest or severe coughing. A broken rib can injure blood vessels and internal organs. The risk increases with the number of broken ribs. Complications vary depending on which ribs break. Possible complications include:.

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