The rib area is rich in nerves, and the human body has a total of 24 ribs, so there are more than 20 intercostal nerves. Therefore, the local pain is very obvious after a rib fracture. The pain may become apparent with breathing and movements of the thoracic cage. Sometimes, especially when changing body positions, the pain can be very significant. Occasionally, coughing, sneezing, or performing other actions that increase abdominal pressure can cause marked pain. Thus, the pain from a rib fracture is quite pronounced and very severe.