HI, thanks for using healthcare magic Rib fracture/break can occur on its own or be associated with damage to the underlying lung. This would be more likely if he is experiencing any shortness of breath or difficulty breathing at all. If this is not the case, then the pain aspect of treatment is pain control. If he is able to, he can try NSAIDS such as naproxen, ibuprofen, cataflam or ketoprofen. If these are not effective, then his doctor would need to prescribe additional medication. Binding the chest, though reduces pain , is no longer recommended because it restricts lung expansion. I hope this helps