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Fracture, Rib, Sports Medicine

Robert J. Baker, MD, PhD, FAAFP, FACSM Reviewed 04/2019
 


BASICS

DESCRIPTION

  • Usually the result of acute blunt trauma, especially in contact sports

  • Rib fractures can also result from rowing, swinging golf clubs, and throwing.

  • Stress fractures can occur as a res...

DIAGNOSIS

HISTORY

  • Acute rib fracture usually presents after chest trauma; can result from a fall on an outstretched arm

  • Often, the pain may be localized to one or two ribs 3[C].

  • The patient can frequentl...

TREATMENT

GENERAL MEASURES

  • Treatment is generally supportive.

  • Pain control is the cornerstone of treatment and may be required for up to 3 to 6 wk after injury.

  • Ice and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory dru...

ONGOING CARE

FOLLOW-UP RECOMMENDATIONS

  • Pain from rib fractures can be severe for several days following the injury.

  • The athlete should be encouraged to continue activities as tolerated, except for conta...

REFERENCES

1
Sirmali M, Türüt H, Topçu S, et al. A comprehensive analysis of traumatic rib fractures: morbidity, mortality and management. Eur J Cardiothorac Surg.  2003;24(1):133–138.
2
Brasel KJ, ...

CLINICAL PEARLS

  • In most cases of isolated rib fractures, simple chest films are all that are required. Dedicated rib series may also be obtained based on clinical findings.

  • Patients should continue to ...

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