Region: Chest
A break or crack in one or more ribs, usually from a direct blow or fall onto the chest.
What is a Rib Fracture?
A break or crack in one or more ribs, usually from a direct blow or fall onto the chest.
Symptoms
- Sharp chest pain
- Pain with deep breathing
- Pain with coughing or laughing
- Tenderness over ribs
- Bruising
What does a Rib Fracture feel like?
- Sharp pain with breathing
- Worse with movement or twisting
- Feels like you can’t take a full breath
What are common causes of a Rib Fracture?
- Direct blow to chest
- Fall onto side or chest
- Contact sports collision
Self check
- Does it hurt to take a deep breath?
- Is the pain sharp when pressing on the ribs?
- Did pain start after a hit or fall?
Educational only — not a medical diagnosis.
What to do now
- Rest and avoid contact
- Ice 10–15 minutes
- Take shallow breaths if needed
- Seek evaluation if pain is severe
Red flags
- Difficulty breathing
- Chest pain worsening quickly
- Coughing up blood
- Blue lips or skin
Recovery tips
- Allow time for bone healing
- Avoid contact until pain-free
- Gradually return to activity
- Practice controlled breathing
Educational only. Not a medical diagnosis.