Rib Fracture 

The rib cage consists of 12 ribs which attach on your thoracic spine posteriorly and to your sternum (breast bone) anteriorly. Rib fractures occur when there is a force directed at a rib which is significant enough to cause it to break. Rib fractures can occur at any age through sport, trips and falls and fragility. 

People who are experiencing a potential rib fracture will usual report a time when they experienced trauma with a sudden onset of symptoms. People will also report:

• Pain which can be particularly sore on the side where the trauma occurred

• Pain when laying on affected side

• Pain during movements such as bending or twisting

• Pain on deep inspiration, coughing, laughing etc

Following a thorough subjective history, a physical examination usually includes:

• Observation for bruising or any deformity

• Range of movement

• Palpation over the affected area

• Ability to take a deep breath in

Rib fractures are usually treated conservatively and based on peoples symptoms. There is a good prognosis for recovery however can take 12 weeks for symptoms to fully settle. Further imaging is usually not required unless there is concern that a rib fracture has not affected any organs such as the lungs or kidneys. However, physiotherapy usually helps by:

• Education

• Rest from aggravating activities

• Dry needling

• Protective padding

• Exercises to improve posture, flexibility and strength, and to prevent localised lung collapse

• Activity modification advice

• Taping techniques (e.g. postural taping)

• A graduated return to activity plan

• Soft tissue massage

• Joint mobilisation (usually following completion of fracture healing)

• Electrotherapy[

• Home exercise plan eg postural exercises, deep breathing exercises, thoracic rotation exercises