How to recuperate from a rib fracture

Written by Cheng Bin
Orthopedics
Updated on June 14, 2025
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Usually, patients with rib fractures need to have an ordinary X-ray and a chest CT to make a clear diagnosis. For displaced fractures, it is crucial to actively reposition, especially for severely displaced fractures, as healing can be challenging. Additionally, strict external fixation with rib fixation plates is necessary, as this provides the best conditions for fracture healing. It is essential to closely monitor changes in vital signs; if the patient experiences chest tightness or difficulty breathing, it may be necessary to actively perform a follow-up chest CT. Often, patients may develop pulmonary contusion and pleural effusion or pneumothorax. For those with a significant amount of fluid or air, it may be necessary to actively perform closed thoracic drainage surgery.

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Written by Guan Jing Tao
Orthopedics
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How long does the pain from a rib fracture last?

Taking a single rib fracture as an example, the pain generally lasts for one to two weeks. Then, over two to four weeks, the pain at the site of the rib fracture gradually eases and stabilizes. In the later stages, as the fracture healing progressively strengthens, the pain will gradually lessen until there is no significant pain. This period is generally about one to three months after the fracture, meaning that the most significant pain from a rib fracture usually lasts from one to two weeks, and then, as the fracture heals, the pain gradually decreases and improves.

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Written by Guan Jing Tao
Orthopedics
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What should I do if I have a rib fracture?

If it is a single, isolated rib fracture, and a chest CT scan shows no significant pleural effusion or obvious damage to the lungs and other thoracic organs, bed rest and wearing a chest brace for protection are recommended. A follow-up X-ray should be taken one and a half months later. If significant callus formation is observed at that time, attempts can be made to sit up and engage in weight-bearing activities. In this case, the recovery period should be at least three months. After three months, another X-ray should be taken; if further growth of the callus is observed, the chest brace can be removed, and normal daily activities can resume, but it is important to avoid heavy lifting to prevent exacerbating local pain. If multiple, severe rib fractures are present, accompanied by significant displacement and damage to the thoracic organs and tissues, hospitalization and possibly surgery are required.

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Written by Li Jie
Orthopedics
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How to treat rib fractures well?

Rib fractures are very common. We consider fractures of three or fewer ribs to be stable fractures, which generally only require local external fixation using a rib belt or chest wrap to stabilize the fracture and alleviate pain. Additionally, treatments can include drugs that activate blood circulation and reduce stasis, anti-swelling and pain relief drugs, or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Then, the fractures can heal on their own. However, if more than three ribs are fractured, we consider it an unstable fracture, which may need to be fixed. Such cases might require surgery to reposition and stabilize the fractured bones. Rib fractures themselves are not very concerning; what is concerning are the complications, such as hemothorax or pneumothorax. If conditions like pleural effusion or pneumothorax occur, it is advised to perform closed chest drainage by inserting a drainage tube to release the accumulated blood and air to avoid severe complications. Rib fractures do not require special treatment; with effective stabilization and treatment, most can fully recover.

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Written by Li Jin
Orthopedics
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Does a rib fracture hurt?

Rib fractures can result in pain, which is one of the most common complications associated with fractures. When experiencing pain, one can use non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to alleviate the discomfort. For the treatment of rib fractures, if it is a single or multiple closed fractures without any associated internal organ damage, and the fracture is well-positioned, non-surgical treatment methods are generally adopted and can achieve good results. Using a chest binder for protection usually enables effective recovery within about four to six weeks. For multiple rib fractures accompanied by abnormal breathing, open fractures, or associated internal organ injuries, surgical methods are primarily used for treatment.

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Written by Li Jin
Orthopedics
1min home-news-image

How to recuperate from a rib fracture

After a rib fracture, it is suggested to pay attention to the following aspects in terms of care: Firstly, after a rib fracture, it is advisable to use a chest binder for protection, which generally needs to be fixed for about four to six weeks. Secondly, in terms of diet, it is important to enhance nutrition. Foods rich in high-quality protein, calcium, and vitamins should be consumed more frequently. These foods help provide nutrients for the recovery of the fracture and promote healing. At the same time, symptomatic medication treatment can be used. For example, anti-inflammatory and analgesic drugs, and traditional Chinese medicines that promote blood circulation and remove blood stasis can facilitate recovery. During the recovery period of the fracture, it is recommended to start rehabilitative exercises as soon as possible and encourage activities like coughing and expectorating to avoid complications such as obstructive pneumonia and lung collapse.