A rib fracture is a crack or break in one of the bones of the rib cage.
A rib fracture is most often caused by a direct blow to the chest. Other causes include forceful coughing or having thin bones (such as from osteoporosis or cancer).
A rib fracture can be very painful:
- At the site where the chest was injured (localized pain).
- With deep breathing.
- When pressure is applied to the injured area.
The treatment for a rib fracture that does not occur with a more serious injury is usually rest, ice to the area, and medicine to relieve pain.
Current as of: July 31, 2024