The 12 pairs of ribs in your chest protect your heart and lungs and provide support to your upper body muscles. The ribs are incredibly strong, but that does not mean they are indestructible. Many car accident victims fracture their ribs when they collide with their steering wheel or dashboard. If this happens to you, it’s important to understand what you should expect during your recovery.
How Are Fractured Ribs Treated?
Most fractured ribs will heal on their own without the use of bandages, wraps, or supportive devices. In fact, placing something tightly around the ribs could restrict breathing and lead to serious complications such as pneumonia.
Your doctor may advise you to take over-the-counter pain medication and anti-inflammatories as needed throughout your recovery. Applying an ice pack to the affected area can help with pain and swelling, too.
Some patients may require surgery. For example, surgery is needed if the fractured rib has punctured one of your lungs. Your doctor may also recommend surgery if the injury is affecting your ability to breathe. In this case, the doctor may need to use metal plates and screws to hold the fractured rib in place while it heals.
Lifestyle Changes During Recovery
Your doctor may ask you to perform deep-breathing exercises on a daily basis until your injury has healed. These exercises keep your lungs strong and prevent dangerous respiratory infections that could develop during your recovery. If you experience pain while performing these exercises, holding a pillow close to your chest can help.
Fortunately, you will not need to stay in bed all day while you recover. Staying active can speed up your recovery and help you avoid complications. Each case is unique, so it’s best to talk to your doctor to determine how active you should be and what activities you should avoid.
How Long Will It Take to Recover From A Fractured Rib?
It usually takes about six weeks to fully recover from a fractured rib. But, it could take longer if you experience complications or do not follow the doctor’s orders. It’s important to attend all follow-up appointments with your doctor to discuss your recovery. Your doctor will closely monitor your progress and let you know when you are ready to return to your normal level of activity.
Fracturing a rib is a painful, unpleasant experience. If you’ve fractured a rib due to another person’s negligence, contact attorney Martin Gasparian right away. Mr. Gasparian is an experienced personal injury attorney who is committed to helping victims of negligence secure the compensation they deserve. Schedule a free consultation regarding your case by calling 559-203-3333 or submitting your information at MaisonLaw.com.
