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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Is Cracking Feeling On Rib Post Injury Indicative Of Broken Rib?

Hello. Fell from top of the stairs. My first hit was on the lower back right rib. Did not notice pain until an hour or so later. Hurt to sleep for several days. Breathing was fine. Could feel moderate pain with a deep inhalation as well as when sneezing. Noticed a cracking or popping feeling on the rib when I pushed on it lightly at a certain angle. I know don't do that! Does that mean it is broken or is this just the cartilage? It has been 17 days since my fall and I feel some improvement. Still hurts when I sneeze the most. Can I still lift weights with this injury? Stretch? Hit golf balls? I am an athlete and know my limits but I don't want to exacerbate the injury. Total rest not an option! Thank you so much for your professional input.

Thu, 4 Feb 2016
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Dentist 's  Response
Hi Welcome to HEALTHCARE MAGIC..

I have gone through your query and can understand your concern...

Yes cracking feeling on rib post injury can be indicative of broken rib. However it can be some injury to some cartilage or ligament as well.
I would not suggest you to lift weights with this injury, Stretch, Hit golf balls, etc unless healing has took place. Trauma to ligaments, carligaes can take months to recover & doing sternous physical activity can worsen your problem. however light walk can be done if not causing any pain.
You should also consult a orthopaedition (or doctor of bones, muscle & joints) for checkup & find out if there is some fracture in ribs or not. An x-ray may be done to visualize the ribs & for diagnosis of any fracture.

Refer to a orthopedist surgeon
Hope this information helps
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Is Cracking Feeling On Rib Post Injury Indicative Of Broken Rib?

Hi Welcome to HEALTHCARE MAGIC.. I have gone through your query and can understand your concern... Yes cracking feeling on rib post injury can be indicative of broken rib. However it can be some injury to some cartilage or ligament as well. I would not suggest you to lift weights with this injury, Stretch, Hit golf balls, etc unless healing has took place. Trauma to ligaments, carligaes can take months to recover & doing sternous physical activity can worsen your problem. however light walk can be done if not causing any pain. You should also consult a orthopaedition (or doctor of bones, muscle & joints) for checkup & find out if there is some fracture in ribs or not. An x-ray may be done to visualize the ribs & for diagnosis of any fracture. Refer to a orthopedist surgeon Hope this information helps