Ace Physiotherapy and Sports in Singapore
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Chat With Us
+65 81535374 -
ACE PHYSIO SPORTS
East gate Building, 46 East Coast Road
#08-03 Singapore 428766 -
Opening Hours
Mon to Fri: 08:00am - 8:00pm -
Opening Hours
Sat: 08:00am - 4:00pm
Sunday (By prior appointment)
Rib Trauma & Rib Fractures
What are rib trauma and rib fractures?
Rib trauma and rib fractures refer to damage to the rib bones that make up the chest wall. Physiotherapy can help relieve symptoms and support recovery from both conditions.
How do rib trauma and rib fractures happen?
Rib trauma is most often caused by a direct impact to the chest, commonly occurring in contact sports such as football and rugby. The force of the blow can lead to a range of injuries, from rib bruising to single or multiple rib fractures.
What are the symptoms of rib trauma and rib fractures?
Rib trauma causes sharp, intense pain at the site of the injury and is made worse by deep breathing or coughing. Other symptoms include:
- Localised tenderness over the affected rib
- Swelling or bruising around the chest area
- Difficulty taking deep breaths
- Pain with certain movements, such as bending or twisting
- A feeling of instability or clicking if the rib is fractured
- Muscle spasm in the surrounding area
What should I do if I have rib trauma or rib fractures?
Ice should be applied to the injured site for 15–20 minutes every 1–2 hours. Ideally, use a bag of frozen peas or crushed ice wrapped in a moist cloth or towel. Continue icing regularly until you attend your initial physiotherapy assessment. This appointment should be arranged as soon as possible after the injury. If you are experiencing difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical attention at the nearest accident and emergency department.
Physiotherapy treatment for rib trauma and rib fractures.
Physiotherapy plays an important role in the treatment of rib trauma. During the initial assessment, your physiotherapist will determine which tissues have been damaged and assess the severity of the injury. In some cases, you may be referred for an X-ray to evaluate the rib cage more thoroughly. Based on the findings, your physiotherapist will estimate your recovery timeline and create a personalised treatment plan. Treatment may include:
- Manipulation / Mobilisation
- Taping
- Hydrotherapy
- Soft Tissue Treatment
- Fracture Treatment
What shouldn’t I do if I have rib trauma or rib fractures?
If you suspect you have rib trauma, it is important to avoid activities that can increase blood flow to the injured area. These may exacerbate bleeding and swelling around the affected structures and potentially delay your recovery. Activities to avoid include hot showers, heat rubs, alcohol consumption, and excessive physical exertion.
Could there be any long-term effects from rib trauma or rib fractures?
Rib trauma typically heals within a few weeks without long-term complications. However, in some cases, recovery may take longer, particularly if underlying structures—such as the lungs, liver, spleen, or kidneys—are also affected at the time of injury. Damage to these organs can lead to more complex symptoms and extended healing times.
To arrange an appointment, please call +65 81535374 or visit acephysiosports.com.
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Our clinics are open:
Mon - Fri: 8am - 8pm
Sat: 8am - 4pm
Sun: On Appointment Basis
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