Bruised Ribs Treatment

The human rib cage, also known as thoracic age, guards vital organs such as the heart and the lungs by forming a skeletal cage around the organs. It consists of a set of 24 rib bones, each attached to a part of the spine called the thoracic vertebrae. The rib cage forms an essential part of the respiratory system with the expansion and contraction of the intercostal muscles creating the rib movements that help in respiration.

Causes

Rib may get bruised if one receives a strong blow to the chest. The injury can vary from a minor bruise, in which the rib moves out of line and damages the adjoining muscles and tissues, to more severe cases such as broken and separated ribs. Athletes, football players, ice-hockey players, etc. are susceptible to such injuries.

Symptoms

The main symptom is severe pain in the rib that may last for several days. Any broken rib may have sharp edges that protrude and cause further damage by puncturing the lungs. People who recently met with an accident that may have caused injury to the ribs, or received a blow to the chest, must seek medical help. An X-ray of the rib cage may be essential, to determine whether there is any indication of bruised lung (pulmonary contusion) or collapsed lung (pneumothorax).

Treatment

A bruised or cracked rib can cause pain, as the ribs move while we breathe. Unlike a fractured hand or arm, the rib cannot be immobilized, which in effect, results in the treatment process becoming lengthy, as the ribs are allowed time to heal by themselves. Bruised ribs treatment is mostly accompanied by bed rest. The basic treatment is to apply ice to the damaged area, for at least 48 hours, or until the pain subsides. The patient is also required to abstain from any activity that may aggravate the pain. Minor bruises can be cured by using a rib pad. The pad creates a compact wrapping around the rib cage, thereby minimizing movement.

Severe injuries that cause rib separation, or broken rib, may cause muscle spasms, thereby making respiration a painful process. Shortness of breath caused by the inability of the lung to expand fully may also cause lung infection or pneumonia. The most usual cure for this condition is to take pain killers and anti-inflammatory drugs and rest the rib. At times, a rib belt can be used to treat such conditions. A rib belt compresses the rib cage and holds it together. A patient is usually advised to take complete rest while wearing the belt, so that the separated or broken rib is allowed time to heal. However, consult a physician, before wearing a rib belt. Broken or severed ribs may require surgery, followed by rest.

A proper diagnosis is very important in order to prevent potential damage to the underlying organs. Rib belts and rib pads should also be used only after consulting with a doctor. Exercises may be performed post-injury to heal the muscles and tissues associated with the injured rib, only if advised by a doctor.