Suggest Treatment For Soreness In Ribs After Injury

Posted on Thu, 24 Sep 2015

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

Thu, 24 Sep 2015 Answered on

Wed, 14 Oct 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : My 13 years old son injured suffered a elbow to the ribs while playing soccer. His ribs are sore after one week. I am not sure if I should be concerned about any fracture or what I can do for him ?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Ivan Romich (5 hours later)

Brief Answer:
no need to be worried

Detailed Answer:
Hi and welcome.
I dont think there is a need to see doctor and do xrays since even rib fracture wont change treatment. Such injuries are common and he probably had thorax and intercostal muscle contusion . For this it is typical that pain persist for up to 2 weeks, and pain is usually more intensive after 3-4 days that initially. AFter 1 week,pain should subside gradualy. he must rest, take ibuprofen 2x400mg, and avoid shallow breathing. YOu can also apply some local creams for pain such as "deep relief" or "diclofenac gel" Wish you good health. Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D