Rib cage

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The ribs are a cage that protect the heart and lungs. There are 12 ribs and they join the vertebrae in the back. When you breath you can feel the movement of your ribs expanding to let in air.

Rib injuries

You can break a rib or have a stress fracture which is a crack in the rib, but cracks in the ribs are not usually treated these days as they will heal themselves within about 3 weeks. The upper 4 ribs are rarely fractured as these are well proteted, it is the lower ones that usuallyresult in injury.

Cause of rib injuries

Broken ribs or fractured ribs are usually the result of a direct blow, although a stress fracture can be caused by for example, a violent muscle contraction in a golf swing or baseball throw.

Symptoms

There may be swelling or discoloration over the damaged area, and it might be possible to see a slight deformity. There will be pain over the injured rib(s) and breathing may be slightly uncomfortable.

Recovery

If the rib(s) have suffered only a slight fracture treatment is not usually neccessary as they will heal themselves within about 3 weeks, but it is advisable to seek medical advice.

Prevention

Before you re-start your sport you need to make sure that you rib cage is fully flexible. Stretching you arms above your head and to the sides, leaning backwards and twisting gently from side to side with your arms outstretched will help to achieve full movement. This will lower the risk of further injury. There are also protective vests that can be worn to prevent further injury made from a canvas rib material.