Chest injury
You have sustained an injury to your chest – there may be a rib fracture, or bruising; both are painful.
This does not need any treatment apart from pain relief. Often your pain gets worse before it gets better. It will settle over time, but may take 4 to 6 weeks to become completely comfortable.
What should I do to help my chest injury heal?
You should:
- take measures to stop smoking, if you smoke
- take painkillers regularly, if required
- do breathing exercises as this helps prevent chest infection
- you should not ignore the need to cough; you can support your chest wall with your hands, a pillow, or a towel to make it feel easier
What exercises should I do?
- Whilst seated, fold your arms and gently rotate your upper body from side to side
- Whilst seated, allow your upper body to “slouch” and then slowly draw up to full height, with your shoulders back - in an exaggerated stretch.
- Every hour take 3 long, deep breaths - to make sure that air gets to every bit of your lungs - then breathe out. These exercises may make you cough – support your chest to help make coughing less painful.
When should I seek further medical attention?
If you have any of the following problems you should seek medical advice from your GP, NHS 111, or return to the Emergency Department for review:
- you have worsening shortness of breath
- you have uncontrolled pain
- you are coughing up blood
- you have symptoms of a chest infection
Reviewed by Dr T Shaw.
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