Broken rib

A broken rib or rib fracture is a break in the rib. The fracture line usually occurs in the middle part of the rib and is a direct consequence of an accident (trauma).

The rib cage consists of twelve (sometimes thirteen) ribs on each side. They are attached at the back to the spine and at the front to the breastbone, with the exception of the floating ribs. All ribs run in an arch from back to front.

How does a broken rib occur?

In general, direct injury is the cause of a rib fracture. This can happen during a blow or collision against the rib cage or a fall on a hard surface.

What increases the risk of a broken rib?

The risk of a broken rib increases when bone quality diminishes. This can be the result of osteoporosis, the medical term for bone demineralisation, or metastases of cancer in the bone. In these specific conditions the bone becomes so weakened that even a nudge, hard laughter or coughing can cause a rib to break.

Symptoms of a broken rib

Severe pain, usually sharp in nature, is the most characteristic symptom of a broken rib. This pain may get worse during deep breathing, sighing, sneezing or coughing. In addition, the pain increases when lying on the affected side and there is tenderness at the level of the broken rib. The surrounding tissue can also be painful to the touch.

It is not always easy to feel whether there is a broken or a bruised rib. Both are very painful.

A broken rib increases the risk of a collapsed lung

The structure of the rib cage provides important protection for vital organs such as the lungs and the heart. Sharp bone fragments from a rib fracture can damage the pleura. This damage can cause a collapsed lung. Shortness of breath and increasing pain point to this.

How is the diagnosis of a broken rib made?

A broken rib can often be established on the basis of the description of the trauma and the results of the physical examination. Almost always, confirmation will be needed by a chest X-ray. This also provides the opportunity to visualise any collapsed lung.

A CT scan or MRI is sometimes used to map the severity of the fracture. In more serious traumas this will also be used to investigate whether other organs are damaged and to what extent.

Treatment of a broken rib

Only in rare cases is an operation necessary. During such an operation the broken rib will be fixed with metal plates. Without surgery, most rib fractures heal on average within a period of six to eight weeks.

Without surgery it is important during the recovery process to do breathing exercises and to adhere to strict rules of daily living. Think of precautions such as using a pillow to support coughing and sneezing. The physiotherapist is ideally suited to support this recovery process.

The physiotherapist can also help to relieve the complaints with medical taping and mobilising exercises.