Quick Answer: Is Bed Rest Good For Broken Ribs?

What helps broken ribs heal faster?


Take deep breaths to avoid pneumonia.

Don’t wrap anything tightly around your ribs while they’re healing..

Does broken rib pain get worse before it gets better?

Symptoms of a rib fracture Some people also have bruising over the injured area as well. Pain when you breathe or cough. Feeling short of breath or unable to catch your breath. A stress fracture also causes pain, but the pain usually starts slowly and gets worse over time.

How can you tell if you have a broken rib or pulled muscle?


What happens if you leave a broken rib untreated?

When untreated, rib fractures will lead to serious short-term consequences such as severe pain when breathing, pneumonia and, rarely, death. Long-term consequences include chest wall deformity, chronic pain and decreased lung function.

When should I worry about a rib injury?

When to worry about rib pain Pain from a broken or bruised rib usually heals by itself over time. However, you should speak to a doctor if: you’re still experiencing pain after a few weeks. you’re coughing up yellow or green mucus.

What’s the best painkiller for broken ribs?

Dotake painkillers, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen – avoid taking ibuprofen for 48 hours after your injury as it may slow down healing.hold an ice pack (or a bag of frozen peas in a tea towel) to the affected ribs regularly in the first few days to bring down swelling.rest and take time off work if you need to.More items…

How do you rest with a broken rib?

If possible, try to sleep in a more upright position for the first few nights after the injury. Very serious rib fractures, such as those that make breathing difficult, may require surgery. In some cases, this may involve using plates and screws to stabilize the ribs while they heal.

Do Broken ribs hurt more when lying down?

It usually takes time at night for the patient to get comfortable enough to fall asleep. Usually, they prop themselves up with pillows or sleep in a recliner. Lying flat makes the pain worse because the chest has to rise against gravity to get that deep breath in and sitting upright takes gravity away.

Should I go to ER for broken rib?

If you’ve been hit hard enough in the chest to make you think you may have broken a rib or two, go to the emergency department or call 911. It’s especially dangerous if the patient has any of the following signs or symptoms: Severe shortness of breath. Coughing blood.

Do Broken ribs ever fully heal?


How long does pain last after broken ribs?

The amount of pain you feel and how long it may last for will depend on the type of injury you have and how badly you have been hurt. As a rough guide, fractured ribs and sternums take about 4-6 weeks to heal and it is usual to still feel some discomfort after this time.

Does a broken rib make a popping sound?

If your rib is broken, you may notice: A cracking sound or feeling inside your chest. Intense chest pain, especially when you take a deep breath. Swelling.

How long should I be off work with broken ribs?

Most rib fractures heal within 6 weeks. Many patients are able to resume daily activities much sooner. Virtually all nonpathologic rib fractures heal well with conservative management. Some patients are able to return to work within a few days, depending on their occupation.