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rib fracture

a rib fracture is a crack or break in one of the bones of the rib cage.

a rib fracture is most often caused by a direct blow to the chest. other causes include forceful coughing or having thin bones (such as from osteoporosis or cancer).

a rib fracture can be very painful:

  • at the site where the chest was injured (localized pain).
  • with deep breathing.
  • when pressure is applied to the injured area.

the treatment for a rib fracture that does not occur with a more serious injury is usually rest, ice to the area, and medicine to relieve pain.

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