Seth Hosmer

I have seen a number of rib injuries in my clinic recently, so I thought I would send a message out with some general info about rib injuries.

The most common history is a bike crash while racing or training for 'cross. The ribs may hit the ground or some other object, or the riders arm is compressed into the chest.

The rider is often able to continue racing/training directly after the crash, but has progressively worsening symptoms over the next several hours or days. Impact on daily activities and riding may vary with the severity of the injury. Most riders are able to continue riding, but some are not. The most commonly reported symptoms are inability to take a full breath, stiffness/pain with trunk movement, and point-tenderness.

Treatment for rib injuries is largely based on symptoms. The main danger with a rib fracture is pneumothorax, whereby a sharp edge of the fractured rib punctures the lung. For additional info on a pneumothorax, see:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pneumothorax#Signs_and_symptoms

X-rays are usually not indicated as a fractured rib is very difficult to image, and the presence or absence of a fracture doesn't significantly change the treatment.

I have treated a number of people with rib injuries in my office, and most experience self-rated 50-90% reduction in symptoms with the first treatment. Most are able to continue training, but must use caution and avoid crashes and possibly racing.

It is often times not the rib itself that is painful, but the surrounding soft tissues. The soft tissues respond quickly to treatment.

I also have first-hand experience with recovering from rib injuries, having fractured ribs on two separate occasions this season. With treatment, I was able to continue training and racing. YMMV.

Seth Hosmer, DC, CSCS
www.HPChiro.com
503.227.2279