HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

question-icon

What Causes Pain In The Bruised Ribs After Application Of Heat?

default
Posted on Mon, 2 Feb 2015
Question: I was in a car accident 2 1/2 weeks ago. I suffered cracked sternum, broken and displaced left clavicle (surgically repaired) and broken first and second ribs on left side. My right side has bruised ribs. I have been applying ice and started feeling better each day. Yesterday I tried heat to the bruised right ribs. I kept the low heat applied off and on through the night. This morning the pain in the bruised ribs is 2 or 3 times worse than it was yesterday. Is this from using heat too long?
doctor
Answered by Dr. Dr. Praveen Tayal (39 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Can be due to heat application.

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Thanks for posting your query.
Yes. The increase in pain is likely to be related to the use of heat too long. Excessive exertion and muscle spasm in the area can also cause an increase in pain. It is best to take rest and avoid any overhead movements.
You can also get an oral muscle relaxant prescribed and see if it helps. Do not use heat for more than 15 minutes at a time and not for more than 3-4 times a day. The bruise will gradually fade away on its own.
I hope this answers your query.
In case you have additional questions or doubts, you can forward them to me, and I shall be glad to help you out.
Wishing you good health.
Regards.
Dr. Praveen Tayal.
For future query, you can directly approach me through my profile URL http://bit.ly/Dr-Praveen-Tayal
Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Dr. Praveen Tayal

Orthopaedic Surgeon

Practicing since :1994

Answered : 12314 Questions

premium_optimized

The User accepted the expert's answer

Share on

Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties

159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM Blog Questions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction
What Causes Pain In The Bruised Ribs After Application Of Heat?

Brief Answer: Can be due to heat application. Detailed Answer: Hello, Thanks for posting your query. Yes. The increase in pain is likely to be related to the use of heat too long. Excessive exertion and muscle spasm in the area can also cause an increase in pain. It is best to take rest and avoid any overhead movements. You can also get an oral muscle relaxant prescribed and see if it helps. Do not use heat for more than 15 minutes at a time and not for more than 3-4 times a day. The bruise will gradually fade away on its own. I hope this answers your query. In case you have additional questions or doubts, you can forward them to me, and I shall be glad to help you out. Wishing you good health. Regards. Dr. Praveen Tayal. For future query, you can directly approach me through my profile URL http://bit.ly/Dr-Praveen-Tayal