Is It Possible For Rib Cage Indention To Return Normal?

Posted on Mon, 10 Nov 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 10 Nov 2014 Answered on

Mon, 8 Dec 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : after the rib cage indention, will it stay that way or slowly return to normal? Thank you

Answered by Dr. Dr. Ivan Romich (39 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
hi and welcome

Detailed Answer:
Can you tell me the exact cause of this rib abnormality and your age. In most cases it won't return to normal and only surgery can lead to complete repair. Some exercises may improve this condition a bit but if there is none abnormality then conservative measures don't work. If there is esthetic concern or breathing difficulties then patient should consult orthopedic surgeon for further treatment. Wish you good health. Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Ivan Romich (8 minutes later)

I fell from a high bed reaching for a phone onto a one step stool and fell onto my left rib cage. It is indented and have had a CT scan and 2 xrays. I am scheduled for a bone scan. I am 69 yrs old. I have MS also.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Ivan Romich (13 hours later)

Brief Answer:
hi

Detailed Answer:
if there was no fracture of rib cage or sternum then it will return to normal in 1-2weeks but if there is fracture then you may need to wait for 2-3 months or even have surgery.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar