Rib injury

While the pain will come from the chest wall it is essential that you keep the lungs working properly during the recovery

In normal life you are continually taking deep breaths even although you may not be aware of this – perhaps as a sigh – this keeps air moving in and out of all parts of the lung.

With a rib injury this is painful but to prevent the lung becoming damaged it is essential that you make a positive attempt to fully expand the lung from time to time

Take your painkillers as recommended.  A preparation containing an anti-inflammatory agent such as ibuprofen may give the most effective pain relief.

To ensure a speedy recovery, it is important to follow these instructions:

Breathing Exercises 

• Support the painful area of your chest with your hand when you move, cough  or sneeze.
• Take a couple of deep breaths at least 5 to 6 times per day. Support the area over the injury
• If you smoke try to stop(!) or at least reduce the number of cigarettes smoked.
• Do not wrap your chest up with plaster/bandages.

If you become short of breath, develop a productive cough or a crackling sensation (similar to screwed up cellophane wrapping) over the injured area, you must seek medical advice immediately from your doctor. 

• Avoid lying on the affected side.
• Your pain may persist for 4-6 weeks

It is important to exercise the shoulder on the affected side, since the shoulder can often become stiff following a rib injury.

The exercise should be performed as follows:

A stirring movement should be made with the elbow, gradually increasing the size of the circular movement for 3 to 4 minutes.  This should be repeated at regular and frequent intervals 3—4 times daily.