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Hit Rib Cage On Bed Side, Severe Pain. How To Know If Rib Cage Is Cracked?
About 1 1/2 wks ago I slipped at the end of the bed and hit my ribcage on the bedstead. I ve had pretty severe pain in the left side of my ribcage. Husband says intercostal myalgia . W//out going for xrays, how would I know if it s that or a cracked rib? Years ago I had a horseback riding accident where the horse fell over on me and the saddle horn broke 2 ribs and punctured my left lung . This hurts nothing like that did! But, it s just odd that it s not improving if it s just a bad bruise , which I think it is. Will this IM go away if it s the problem? The main problem is lying in bed at night. Either side I lie on is very painful so I m not getting nearly the rest I need to properly heal.
Wed, 19 Jun 2013
Hi,
In order to diagnose a fractured rib after a fall like this you would need an x-ray. However, the treatment would likely be rest and pain-killers which is what I would suggest even if the ribs are not fractured but very painful.
I suggest you wait another few days and if the pain is just as bad, then seek the help and advice of your doctor.
Best regards,
Dr K A Pottinger
In order to diagnose a fractured rib after a fall like this you would need an x-ray. However, the treatment would likely be rest and pain-killers which is what I would suggest even if the ribs are not fractured but very painful.
I suggest you wait another few days and if the pain is just as bad, then seek the help and advice of your doctor.
Best regards,
Dr K A Pottinger
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