Ace Physiotherapy and Sports in Singapore
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+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)
Stress Fractures of the Ribs
What is a stress fracture of the ribs?
A stress fracture of the rib refers to a small crack or incomplete break in one of the rib bones, often caused by repetitive strain or overuse. These injuries are common in athletes involved in activities that place continuous pressure on the chest, such as rowing or throwing sports.
How do stress fractures of the ribs happen?
When repetitive stress is applied to a rib, certain areas of the bone may become damaged. The body naturally responds by removing the injured bone tissue and replacing it with new bone. However, if the rate of new bone formation is slower than the rate at which old bone is resorbed, weak spots can develop at the stressed sites. Over time, continued stress on these weakened areas may result in a stress fracture. This type of injury is particularly common among rowers, as many of the muscles involved in rowing attach to the ribs. The repetitive pulling forces generated by these muscles can overload the weakened bone, increasing the risk of a stress fracture.
What are the symptoms of stress fractures of the ribs?
Individuals with a rib stress fracture often report gradually worsening chest pain that develops over several weeks. The discomfort is typically localized to the site of the fracture and tends to intensify with physical activity. Initially, the pain may only occur after exercise, but by the time they seek medical attention, it is often more persistent and severe, making activities like rowing too painful to continue. At this stage, the pain may also be noticeable during breathing or coughing. The affected area is frequently tender to touch and may appear red or feel warm, indicating localized inflammation.
- reduced range of movement
- swelling/inflammation
- stiffness
- weakness
What should I do if I have a stress fracture of a rib?
If you suspect you may have a rib stress fracture, it is important to book an assessment with a physiotherapist as soon as possible to confirm the diagnosis and begin appropriate treatment.
Physiotherapy treatment for a stress fractures of a rib.
Physiotherapists play a vital role in the management of a rib stress fracture. In the early stages, they can assist in diagnosing the injury, which may involve referring you for imaging such as a bone scan, CT scan, or MRI to confirm the extent of the damage. Based on the findings, your physiotherapist can estimate the expected healing time and develop a personalised treatment plan. This typically includes a period of rest or modification of activity, along with strategies such as anti-inflammatory medications and electrotherapy. Electrotherapy may assist in reducing pain and enhancing the healing process of the affected rib.
- Manipulation / Mobilisation
- Fracture Treatment
- Hydrotherapy
- Postural Realignment
What shouldn’t I do if I have a stress fracture of a rib?
If you have, or suspect you have, a rib stress fracture, it is important to stop exercising and avoid participating in sports. Continuing to train or compete can worsen the injury, increasing the area of bone breakdown and potentially leading to a complete rib fracture.
Could there be any long-term effects of a stress fracture of a rib?
A rib stress fracture typically heals without any long-term effects, provided it is managed correctly. With appropriate treatment and rest, recovery usually takes place over the course of several weeks.
To arrange an appointment, please call +65 81535374 or visit acephysiosports.com.
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