Rib injuries occur when one or more ribs are bruised, fractured, or strained, often as a result of trauma, falls, contact sports, or repetitive twisting movements. These injuries can cause pain with movement, breathing, or coughing. Most rib injuries heal naturally over 4–8 weeks, depending on severity.
Rib injuries vary in severity:
- Rib contusion (bruise) – injury to the muscles or soft tissues around the rib without bone fracture
- Rib fracture – a crack or break in the rib bone, which may be stable or more severe
- Costochondral or cartilage injuries – affecting the joint between the rib and sternum
Common symptoms include:
- Pain over the affected rib, often sharp or aching
- Pain worsened by deep breathing, coughing, sneezing, or twisting
- Swelling or tenderness over the rib area
- Difficulty with certain movements or daily activities