Rib Contusion or Minor Fracture

Home care

• You may use over-the-counter pain medicine, such as ibuprofen to control pain, unless another pain medicine was prescribed. Talk with your health care provider before using these medicines if you have chronic liver or kidney disease, ever had a stomach ulcer or digestive bleeding, or take blood thinners.

• Rest. Don't lift anything heavy or do any activity that causes pain.

• Apply an ice pack over the injured area for 15 to 20 minutes every 1 to 2 hours. Do this for the first 24 to 48 hours. To make an ice pack, put ice cubes in a plastic bag that seals at the top. Wrap the bag in a clean, thin towel or cloth. Never put ice or an ice pack directly on the skin. Continue with ice packs as needed for the relief of pain and swelling.

• The first 3 to 4 weeks of healing will be the most painful. If your pain is not under control with the treatment given, call your provider. Sometimes a stronger pain medicine may be needed. A nerve block can be done in case of severe pain. It will numb the nerve between the ribs.

Follow-up care

Follow up with your health care provider, or as advised.

If X-rays were taken, you will be told of any new findings that may affect your care.

Call 911

Call 911 if you have:

• Dizziness, weakness or fainting.

• Shortness of breath.

• Chest pain.

• Pain that is new or gets worse.

When to get medical advice

Contact your health care provider right away if you have:

• A fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or as advised by your provider.

• Chills.

• Stomach pain or vomiting.