What is the usual treatment for broken ribs?

Most rib fractures don't require specific medical treatment and will heal on their own in a few weeks. Pain management is the mainstay of treatment.

Treatment for broken ribs may include:

Pain relievers. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB), can help relieve pain. For more severe pain, your doctor may prescribe stronger pain medication, such as opioids.

Ice. Applying ice to the affected area can help reduce pain and swelling. Ice should be applied for 20 minutes at a time, several times a day.

Rest. It's important to rest and avoid activities that put pressure on the broken ribs. This will help prevent further injury and allow the ribs to heal.

Physical therapy. Physical therapy can help improve your range of motion and strength after the ribs have healed.

Breathing exercises. Deep breathing exercises can help keep your lungs healthy and prevent pneumonia.

In some cases, surgery may be necessary to treat broken ribs. This is usually only necessary if the ribs are severely damaged or if there is damage to the underlying organs.