How long before a rib fracture stops hurting?

Written by Cheng Bin
Orthopedics
Updated on October 21, 2024
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Regarding the question of how long it takes for rib fractures to stop hurting, usually, for patients with rib fractures, the pain gradually subsides after about two weeks. This is because around two weeks is the period when the fracture site reaches the fibrous connection stage, making it relatively stable, which therefore alleviates the pain. For patients with rib fractures in the early stages, if the diagnosis is clear, severe pain can be relieved by orally taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or by receiving pain relief injections. Additionally, it is crucial to closely monitor the vital signs of patients with rib fractures, as rib fractures often occur alongside lung contusions and the accumulation of fluid or air in the chest cavity. (Please use medication under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Li Jie
Orthopedics
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Can I take calcium tablets for a fracture?

After a fracture, there are generally several stages a person will go through. These can typically be divided into the following stages: hematoma organization stage, fibrous connection stage, initial callus stage, mature callus stage, and then the remodeling stage. During these periods, the area of the bone is undergoing a metabolic process involving both osteoclasts and osteoblasts. During this metabolic process, calcium is required, and a deficiency in calcium can affect the healing of the fracture. Therefore, it is advised that patients with fractures should take calcium supplements. Along with calcium, it is also recommended to supplement with vitamin D, which can enhance bone absorption and calcium absorption, aiding in the healing of fractures. Thus, the conclusion is that fracture patients can indeed take calcium tablets.

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Written by Cheng Bin
Orthopedics
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Symptoms of fractures

Patients with fractures typically exhibit marked pain symptoms locally, accompanied by local swelling and limited movement. Some patients may also present with fever as a clinical symptom. There might be clear signs of bone crepitus and a sensation of bone rubbing on palpation. In severe cases, deformities or abnormal movement may occur, which are common clinical symptoms of fractures. For the diagnosis of fractures, it is necessary to actively take a regular X-ray. For some occult fractures, it is essential to conduct a CT scan and three-dimensional reconstructive CT to confirm the diagnosis.

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Written by Li Jie
Orthopedics
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What to eat with a rib fracture

The diet for patients with rib fractures is not much different from that for general fracture patients. It is advisable to eat more high-nutrition, high-protein, low-fat, and easily digestible foods, which can facilitate the healing of fractures. Additionally, consumption of calcium-rich foods, such as eggs, milk, fish, or shrimp shells, can be beneficial. At the same time, taking calcium tablets and vitamin D can also promote the healing of fractures. Furthermore, according to Traditional Chinese Medicine, there is a belief in "like cures like," so for rib fractures, consuming ribs, such as pork ribs, could theoretically help in the healing process according to this theory.

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Written by Lv Yao
Orthopedics
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Principles of Fracture Treatment

A fracture refers to the disruption of the integrity and continuity of a bone, characterized by local pain, swelling, and limited mobility. In the early stages of a fracture, it is necessary to reposition and immobilize the affected area, and apply cold compresses to reduce local swelling. After the swelling has subsided, the treatment method is chosen based on the degree of displacement of the fracture. Options include internal fixation with open reduction, internal plate fixation of the fracture, or the use of plaster or braces for stabilization. In the case of an open fracture, the exposed wound must be cleaned immediately, and appropriate stabilization should be provided to prevent infection.

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Written by Li Jie
Orthopedics
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Symptoms of rib fracture

After a rib fracture, the main symptom is pain. This is because the intercostal nerves located in the rib area are very rich, making the pain quite intense. Especially when the patient coughs or sneezes, and when the abdominal pressure increases, the pain can get quite severe. Also, when the patient changes their position, such as moving from sitting to lying down, or from lying down to sitting up to standing, the pain is very apparent. Additionally, another sign that may appear is local crepitus or a sensation of bone rubbing. That is, when pressing with a hand, one might feel the rubbing of the fractured bone and hear a crackling sound under the hand. Moreover, a rib fracture could lead to the accumulation of fluid or air in the chest cavity. If there is fluid or air in the chest cavity, it can be accompanied by difficulties in breathing and poor respiratory function, shortness of breath, and other related symptoms. These are some common symptoms of rib fractures.