Does a rib fracture hurt?

Written by Li Jin
Orthopedics
Updated on September 19, 2024
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Rib fractures can result in pain, which is one of the most common complications associated with fractures. When experiencing pain, one can use non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to alleviate the discomfort. For the treatment of rib fractures, if it is a single or multiple closed fractures without any associated internal organ damage, and the fracture is well-positioned, non-surgical treatment methods are generally adopted and can achieve good results. Using a chest binder for protection usually enables effective recovery within about four to six weeks. For multiple rib fractures accompanied by abnormal breathing, open fractures, or associated internal organ injuries, surgical methods are primarily used for treatment.

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Written by Li Jin
Orthopedics
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How long does the pain from a rib fracture last?

Pain generally persists for about three days after a rib fracture, as the first three days post-fracture are the acute phase of the condition, during which pain is relatively severe. This pain will gradually subside as the condition improves, typically fading substantially within one to two weeks. If pain occurs after a rib fracture, it can be alleviated with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory analgesic drugs, which can be taken short-term after meals. Additionally, it is important to rest after a rib fracture and avoid irritating the fracture site to effectively reduce pain. During the recovery period, some traditional Chinese medicines that invigorate blood circulation and dissipate blood stasis can also be used to promote healing. These measures are generally helpful in the recovery from a rib fracture.

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Written by Guan Jing Tao
Orthopedics
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How to sleep with a rib fracture

For rib fractures requiring bed rest, wearing a chest brace for protection is advisable. During the initial 2 to 4 weeks, sleeping positions should be such that they do not cause pain. In cases of multiple rib fractures, pain might occur irrespective of whether the patient is lying on their back or side. Therefore, there are no special requirements for sleeping positions; it should be whatever position causes the least pain locally. A chest brace can also be used to help minimize the pain caused by friction between the fractured ends of the bones. In addition, it is recommended to consume foods rich in calcium and take oral bone-healing calcium supplements to promote fracture healing, as this is the fundamental way to alleviate pain.

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Written by Lv Yao
Orthopedics
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What are the symptoms of a rib fracture?

When a rib fracture occurs, there is initially localized pain, particularly exacerbated during breathing, and increased pain during pressing on the ribcage. Early on, there may be no respiratory or pulmonary inflammation, but if there is no systematic treatment and no rest, this could lead to breathing difficulties and signs of inflammation in the chest cavity. Additionally, if multiple ribs are fractured at multiple sites, a condition known as flail chest may occur.

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Written by Li Jin
Orthopedics
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Does a rib fracture hurt?

Rib fractures can result in pain, which is one of the most common complications associated with fractures. When experiencing pain, one can use non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to alleviate the discomfort. For the treatment of rib fractures, if it is a single or multiple closed fractures without any associated internal organ damage, and the fracture is well-positioned, non-surgical treatment methods are generally adopted and can achieve good results. Using a chest binder for protection usually enables effective recovery within about four to six weeks. For multiple rib fractures accompanied by abnormal breathing, open fractures, or associated internal organ injuries, surgical methods are primarily used for treatment.

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Written by Li Jie
Orthopedics
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Can you move with a rib fracture?

After a rib fracture, the patient's limbs can still move, and movement of the limbs should generally not pose major problems. However, excessive movement can sometimes cause pain, as well as movement and displacement at the fracture ends. Therefore, it is generally advised that after a rib fracture, the patient should primarily rest and minimize movement, especially within the first two weeks of the acute phase, where bed rest is strongly recommended. Avoid strenuous activities, although some gentle exercise can be appropriate, but vigorous physical labor is not advised.