Fractured ribs occur when one or more of the bones in your rib cage become cracked. Trauma to your ribs normally occurs as the result of a fall or direct blow to your chest including participation in contact sports -- such as football. Players who take a significant number of hits or block frequently are most likely to sustain a fractured rib -- including quarterbacks, receivers and running backs. If you have a fractured rib, you should avoid playing football until you are pain-free. If you feel you must play, check with a doctor.
Step 1
Know the symptoms of a fractured rib. If you experience a blow to the breast followed by pain and swelling around the ribs, you may have fractured a rib. Other symptoms include pain while breathing and coughing. Fractured ribs can also lead to shortness of breath and dizziness.
Step 2
See your doctor. If your ribs are tender, make an appointment with your doctor. A broken rib can rarely puncture your lungs, heart and other internal organs. Your doctor will likely take an X-ray in order to reveal a fractured rib. If your doctor has further questions, an MRI or CT scan can be used to reveal missed fractures or soft tissue damage.
Step 3
Ask your doctor about participation in sports. Football will likely be out of the question but you can inquire about low-impact exercise that will help you maintain your stamina as you recover.
Step 4
Take over-the-counter pain medications. Anti-inflammatory medications can help to reduce discomfort as you heal.
Step 5
Rest. With three to six weeks of rest, you should be able to resume participation in football. If you do not rest, you will not be able to heal.
Step 6
Attend team practices, games and meetings. While sidelined, attending team functions can help you stay on top of new plays and remain connected with your team.
Tips and Warnings
- To help reduce the occurrence of rib fractures, wear a chest protector pad at all times even during practices.
