When you suffer an injury or illness, it is essential to receive proper diagnosis and treatment to achieve the best possible recovery. Unfortunately, many people, due to lack of time or underestimating the severity of their symptoms, do not go to the doctor and this can lead to serious complications.
What is a rib cage injury?
A rib cage injury is when damage or injury occurs that affects any of the organs located in the thorax.. This area, which extends from the neck to the abdomen, contains several vital organs, including the heart, lungs, esophagus, trachea, and other important blood vessels.
Symptoms of rib cage injuries
The symptoms that occur in this type of injury can vary depending on the severity and complexity of the damage. Some of the most common symptoms may include chest pain, shortness of breath, dDecreased level of consciousness and dizziness.
It is important to keep in mind that symptoms are not always immediate and can appear hours or even days after the trauma that caused the injury. For this reason, it is recommended to have a medical check-up after any trauma that involves a blow to the chest, especially if any of these symptoms appear. Early diagnosis of this type of injury is vitally important to prevent serious complications.
Causes of chest wall injuries
The chest wall is a crucial structure for the protection of the vital organs of the chest, such as the heart, which despite being extremely resistant, can be affected by different types of trauma, which are classified into two groups:
- Blunt trauma: these constitute between 85-95% of cases and are due to direct trauma, such as car accidents or falls. Rib fractures and lung injuries are the most common injuries in this group, and if treated in time, they do not lead to serious complications.
- Open trauma: they represent around 15% of cases and are usually caused by injuries from knives or firearms. This type of injury has a higher probability of mortality.
Most common injuries of the rib cage
Injuries generated in this area can be dangerous and have serious consequences, so it is important to know the most common traumas. If we are familiar with these injuries, we can take preventive measures in case any symptoms occur, avoiding complications and improving the prognosis of the injury. Next, we will mention the most common traumas to the rib cage.
Chest wall injury
Injuries to the chest wall are extremely common and are usually caused by direct trauma, such as falls or strong blows. The symptoms that may occur after an injury of this type are: shortness of breath or chest pain.
Traumatic aortic rupture
It is a serious injury where a wound in the wall of the aorta which can cause serious internal bleeding that must be treated immediately. This injury can occur when you receive a very strong blow to the chest without a visible wound on the skin. In these cases, symptoms such as intense chest pain, difficulty breathing, among other serious symptoms that require immediate medical attention may occur.
Closed heart injury
This type of injury can occur due to a blunt chest trauma, such as a direct blow to the heart or a rib fracture, and can affect the internal structures of the heart. When a closed heart injury occurs, symptoms such as palpitations, chest pain, and difficulty breathing may be experienced.
Hemothorax
It is a possible complication after a trauma to the rib cage, which is caused by an accumulation of blood in the pleural cavity. Symptoms that may occur with a hemothorax include chest pain, difficulty breathing, and coughing up blood.
Pneumothorax
Pneumothorax is a frequent complication in rib cage injuries, and occurs when there is an accumulation of air in the pleural cavity. This condition can cause a number of symptoms, including palpitations, shortness of breath, and chest pain.
Cardiac tamponade
It is a serious and life-threatening complication that can arise as a result of rib cage trauma where a fluid buildup around the heart, preventing it from functioning correctly. As with other types of trauma, symptoms such as chest pain, palpitations and difficulty breathing occur, and it is extremely important to receive immediate medical attention.
Diaphragm injury
This injury consists of a tear in the diaphragm muscle, which is the most important muscle for breathing, and can manifest symptoms such as cough, difficulty breathing, abdominal pain and chest pain. In some cases, this injury can be serious, causing a diaphragmatic hernia, which consists of a displacement of the abdominal organs towards the thorax. This complication can be a serious health problem and requires immediate medical attention.
How is a chest wall injury diagnosed?
The studies necessary to diagnose this type of injury will depend on the severity of the accident and the symptoms that the patient presents. First, doctors will begin by performing a physical evaluation and, if necessary, order studies such as x-rays, CT scans, or MRIs to get a detailed picture of the state of the internal tissues.
In the event that a pneumothorax or hemothorax, the doctor can request lung function tests to evaluate your breathing capacity. Furthermore, in cases where it is considered that there may be cardiac lesions, tests such as the electrocardiogram can be performed to detect abnormalities in the functioning of the heart.
Treatments for rib cage trauma
It is estimated that in 80% of cases, rib cage injuries can be treated without the need for surgery. In these cases, doctors will control the patients' pain through anti-inflammatories and analgesics, and in some cases they will recommend physical therapy to strengthen the muscles that surround the rib cage and improve mobility.
In the remaining cases, a surgical intervention is usually necessary where plates, screws or other devices will be applied to help stabilize the bones by reducing the pressure they produce against the organs.
In both cases it is essential to follow medical advice to obtain a successful recovery. With adequate treatment and enough time, patients can return to their daily lives after these traumas.
At Clínica Elgeadi we have highly trained professionals for the diagnosis and treatment of rib cage injuries that will allow you to have an excellent recovery. Do not hesitate to come to our clinic or make an appointment so that our doctors can clarify all your doubts and offer you the best possible care.
63 thoughts on “Lesiones de la caja o pared torácica: causas, síntomas y tratamientos”
Thanks for the information. How much does a consultation cost?
Hello Blanca,
On our page private appointment You will be able to see the information and request your reservation.
Greetings.
I had a strong blow near the heart almost in the
center of the chest but more inclined to the left side, at the time I had difficulty breathing and after the anxiety I have not had any further complications breathing but the area hurts every time I lower my head or try to move my head.
I had a stroke
I fell on my chest, that is, the thorax was the one that had the impact of the blow and after 5 days my floating ribs started to hurt. I touch them and it gives me the impression that there is some injury because they hurt me and also when I breathe and yesterday I had a little dizziness.
Hello Ana,
An imaging test would be necessary to see the injuries that have occurred.
Greetings
Hello, I fell on my head and bent my chest in two. This happened more than three weeks ago. I still feel a lot of pain when I move or pick up something heavy with my hands.
Hello, Mariene,
Hello,
Due to the persistent pain and difficulty performing certain movements, it would be advisable to see an orthopedic surgeon for a proper evaluation. It is important to rule out any injuries to the spine or thoracic structures that may be causing these symptoms.
The orthopedic surgeon will be able to prescribe the most appropriate treatment and, if necessary, perform additional studies to assess the situation more accurately.
Greetings.
Hello, I fell down a flight of stairs and hit my right breast and ribs very hard. I had an X-ray the same day. I don't have a fracture, but I have a stabbing pain that isn't very bothersome, it hurts when I cough, breathe, etc. The X-ray says I have bilateral hilar strain. Is this due to the impact?
Hi sweetie,
Even if the X-ray ruled out fractures, you may have a severe bruise on your ribs or the soft tissues in the area. This may explain the stabbing pain you feel when coughing, breathing, or moving.
If the pain doesn't improve or worsens, it's important to see a doctor again. Sometimes this type of discomfort can take several weeks to resolve, and in some cases, treatment is necessary to relieve symptoms and prevent the problem from becoming worse.
We wish you a speedy recovery.
Good afternoon. For three months I have been suffering from pain and discomfort under the diaphragm.
I have the middle part of my abdomen as "bulging" and sticking out. I would like to know if
They treat this type of diaphragm pathology and what type of treatment it would be. They tell me what it is
with Infrasound. Thank you very much. Regards.
Hello Alvaro,
We would have to know the diagnosis first and know what is causing this. Most cases do not require surgical intervention but rehabilitation with physiotherapy. But having said that, we would have to know the diagnosis to see how to proceed.
Greetings
I hit the right side of my chest in a small fall with the steering wheel of the motorcycle when I walk or bend down I feel it stick or I hear a clicking and creaking sound in the part where the blow is located below the right nipple. That's bad.
Hello Mario,
It would be necessary to inspect it personally and probably take an x-ray to rule out injuries.
Greetings
More than a year ago I hit my chest, I coughed blood many times, I still feel pain when I cough. A year and 7 days ago I went to the doctor and they told me that I had a tumor in my left lung. From the measurements I read I considered it extremely large. I am disoriented. I would like to know what I have.
Hello Jose,
In your case, the best thing will be for you to receive the diagnosis from the specialist and he will guide you to know the step by step to improve yourself.
Greetings
Good morning.
As a traveler on public transport.
As a passenger, I had a very bad fall when leaving the train car.
He did a Thoracic CT scan on me
And they found me:
Conclusion: Dilatation of the aortic root and ascending aorta up to 49 mm. Some plaques
calcified atheromatous coronary arteries. Hepatomegaly, segment 4 hypertrophy and steatosis.
Cholecystectomy. Rest of the study without significant pathological alterations.
I am referring to the Arterial injury.
Without having any previous or prior history.
My question….
A STRONG BLOW TO THE CHEST AFTER A FALL HITTING HIS CHEST ON THE PLATFORM WITH FORCE.
THE TRAUMATOLOGIST IS VERY CONCERNED ABOUT THE LARGE DILATATION OF THE AORTA ARTERY IN THE CHEST.
I WOULD LIKE YOUR OPINION PLEASE.
AFTER MY CHEST HIT THE FLOOR OF THE PLATFORM VERY HARD AFTER LEAVING THE CAR DUE TO PROBLEMS DURING TRANSPORT AND STORAGE, I WAS PUSHED UPON EXIT AND FALLING VERY HARD WITH MY CHEST ON THE FLOOR OF THE PLATFORM.
MAY DAMAGE ARTERIES OR VEINS.
ARTERY LIKE AN ANEURYSM 49MM POREAL CT AFTER ACCIDENT.
NO PREVIOUS HISTORY OF ARTERY, CARDIAC OR CARDIVASCULAR DISEASES NO PREVIOUS HISTORY.
I PLEASE REQUEST IN YOUR RESPONSE WHAT CAN BE EVALUATED AFTER THE CT SCAN TEST AND MEDICAL OPINION.
I AM ALLOWED TO ALSO PLEASE RECEIVE COMMENTS AND MEDICAL OPINIONS IN MY EMAIL.
Hello Jorge,
We need more information to know your clinical profile and give you an answer.
You can make an appointment at +34 91 005 39 00.
Greetings
Good morning, 2 days ago I fell in the patio of my house, I hit my chest, knees and arms hard, today I felt pain in my ribs, I laugh and it hurts, I cough and it hurts, I have a purple bruise on my thigh, I am taking Trichochicoside
Good morning, 15 days ago I had a motorcycle accident, a car hit me on the right side and I flew out of the car. I have a crack in my fibula and several other injuries, but what worries me is a pain in my chest that prevents me from standing for long periods of time and I have trouble breathing. I can't lie down or sit for long periods of time because I feel suffocated. What could it be?
or is it normal as the doctors say because they say that I have no fracture or injury in the lungs but then why the pain in the chest
Hello Israel,
Chest pain and shortness of breath after an accident could be signs of a lung contusion, muscle or rib injury, even without fractures. If it persists or worsens, it is essential to seek a second opinion to rule out more serious problems such as an internal injury.
Greetings
Good morning, on Sunday, September 15, I tripped and fell face first onto the ground, leaving my purse between my sternum and the floor. I hurt my hands and one leg, but the impact was strong when I fell and the pain I have at the level of my sternum and ribs no longer persists. At the moment of the impact, my breathing was cut off and I felt disoriented. I couldn't take a breath and it hurts when I cough or sneeze. But mainly I can't lie down and when I try to get up it hurts a lot.
Good morning Karina,
The symptoms you describe, such as pain when breathing and moving, could indicate a bruise to the sternum or ribs, or even a fracture. I suggest you see a doctor for immediate evaluation to rule out serious injuries.
Greetings
Good morning, I had a strong blow to the chest. I fell on the corner of a table, hitting the right side of my chest. I feel pain and sometimes when I make quick movements with my arms or body I lose my breath and feel sharp pains. Today, 5 days after the blow, I feel pain and I have difficulty breathing when I sit in a moving vehicle. I appreciate your response.
Hello Hernan,
If you notice that the pain is abnormal, do not wait to consult a specialist.
To make an appointment with our team you can call 91 005 39 00.
Greetings
Hello good morning about a month ago I had a motorcycle accident, I fell on my back with weight on my right side, I hit myself hard and I started to have terrible pain in my chest at the height of the clavicle, when I do movements as simple as grabbing a broom it hurts and I can't carry heavy things because it hurts just the same, as well as repeatedly feeling something that is stuck in my neck and I even feel the sensation that my saliva is choking me when I swallow it, they only did an MRI of my right shoulder and it showed bursitis and intrasubstance of the superspinatus, I don't know if it's because of that or I have a chest injury that could put my health at risk since they tell me that it's only the blow because I don't have any visible hematoma but the internal pain is terrible when I move
Hi, Diana,
It is important to see a specialist as your symptoms may indicate additional injury to your chest or neck that was not detected by the shoulder MRI. Severe pain and shortness of breath should be evaluated to rule out serious injury.
Greetings.
Hello, hello, three weeks ago I had a strong blow to the chest after a fall. They did x-rays and no cracks or fractures or anything strange were visible, but the pain does not decrease in intensity. I would like to know if it is normal or if I should keep looking at it. Thank you.
Hello Nicholas,
After a severe blow to the chest, you may experience muscle or rib pain, even if X-rays show no fractures or cracks. The pain may persist for several weeks as the tissues heal. However, if the pain remains severe or worsens, it may be advisable to see a doctor again to rule out other problems or receive appropriate follow-up care.
Greetings
My daughter had an accident in a reiser car and had a very strong blow to the ribs on the left side but there is no fracture but she feels a lot of pain when breathing deeply. What risks does this blow have in the future?
Hi Karina,
We would have to see her in consultation to understand the case and be able to give you an answer.
You can make an appointment by calling (+34) 91 005 39 00
Greetings
Good evening. More than two months ago, on October 29, 2024, I had a very hard fall, which was first supported with both hands. Then I fell against the ribs near the heart, which at the time left me without breathing. I only came to breathe when two coworkers helped me up. From then on, I have had pain in my chest. I feel like something is heavy in my heart and have difficulty breathing and I get coughing. Sometimes I also get dizzy.
Hello Juan Carlos,
We are very sorry that you are experiencing these symptoms. Chest pain, shortness of breath, a feeling of heaviness, and dizziness can be indicative of a number of conditions, some of which require urgent medical attention. Since you mention that the pain began after an impact to the ribs near the heart, it is critical that a doctor perform a full evaluation to rule out possible internal injuries, such as rib fractures or problems with the lungs or heart.
We recommend that you consult a doctor as soon as possible for a thorough check-up and to obtain the appropriate treatment. It is important that you do not ignore these symptoms and seek professional care to ensure your well-being. If you wish, you can schedule an appointment with our team of specialists by calling 91 005 39 00.
After an assez violent massage I received an important douleur at the level of sternum cela fait une week et la douleur est toujours important malgré la prize d antalgiques il n'y a pas d amélioration quoi faire
Hello Miara,
It is understandable that the persistence of the douleur may be worrying. In certain cases, an intense massage can provoke inflammation or irritation at the sternum level. Cependant, si l'inconfort persiste malgré la prize d'antalgiques, il serait recommandé qu'un spécialiste évaluate votre cas afin de déterminer le traitement le plus approprié.
Greetings.
مرحبا
منذ ثلاثة اسابيع او اكثر سقطت على الارض وكانت الضربة من الجهة اليسرى للجسم نتيجة هبوط بالدوره الدموية يوجد الم تحت الصدر ومزعج جدا ولكن لا يوجد اي اثر كدمات او كسر
فقط الم مزعج يشبه التمزق ماذا افعل في هذه حاله
مرحبًا، نأسف كثيرًا لأنك تعرضت لهذه السقطة. إذا استمرت الأوجاع، نوصيك بالبحث عن مساعدة من متخصص لتقييم حالتك. في حال كان الأمر ضروريًا، قد يطلب الطبيب إجراء فحوصات لتأكيد التشخيص وتقديم العلاج المناسب.
Bonjour
This après-midi in voulant pesez ma valise avec un petit appareil electronique avec mes deux mains, j'ai essayé de remonter la valise et je me suis fait très mal au thorax. I heard a violent noise with a crackling noise. J'ai ressenti un malaise. Afterwards, the douleur is present when I breathe and is only half asleep. I thought there was a morning of the radios aux urgences de l'hôpital. Mais je suis inquiète car je dois voyager en avion dans 6 jours je me surtout si c'est serious☺️.
Hello Solange,
La douleur thoracique après un effort peut être liée à une contracture musculaire ou à une other cause, mais il est important qu'un médecin l'évalue afin d'exclure toute lésion osseuse ou articulaire. Vous faites bien de vous rendre aux urgences pour que les exams nécessaires puissent être réalisés et qu'un diagnosis précis puisse être posé.
If the pain persists or intensifies, then follow the medical recommendations for recovery.
Greetings.
Hello, good morning. I also had a severe fall. Reading your comments, and that you also had an accident, I just want to tell you that
I am very sorry for your pain and I hope that we recover soon, that it is nothing bad and that your body heals soon.
Hello, I'm Magaly. I had a fall and hit something under my rib and the pain was very strong and it hurt when I breathed. I had an X-ray at the time of the fall and nothing came out, just a bruise. The pain continued for another week. I went back to the doctor, they gave me a betagen injection and I got better. They repeated the X-rays and the result was the same: there was no fracture. The medicine relieved me and I can breathe better now, but the pain still persists and what bothers me the most is that I can't sleep well because it hurts wherever I lie. Thank you.
Hello, Magaly.
Thank you for sharing your experience. In cases like yours, where there is a severe blow without a fracture but with prolonged pain, there may be soft tissue damage—such as intercostal muscles, fascia, or costal cartilage—that continues to cause discomfort even after several days.
Physical therapy can be helpful in relieving pain, improving mobility, and promoting better sleep quality, as long as your doctor approves it. Techniques such as gentle manual therapy, breathing exercises, and myofascial release can help reduce residual tension.
If the pain persists or interferes with rest, we recommend discussing it with your doctor or a specialized physical therapist to discuss complementary treatment options.
Good luck and a speedy recovery!
Hello, a month ago a 700 kg bull hit my dad and sent him tumbling to the ground for 12 meters. The doctor checked him out and didn't find anything serious. The x-ray showed no signs of fractures. The first week he didn't feel much pain. But in the second week the pain started and it still hasn't gone away. His chest hurts and he has a persistent cough. Apparently the bruises have already gone away. Do you think the pain from the blow is normal or do you think it could be something internal? What should I do?
Hello Salma,
Thank you for sharing your father's case. After such a severe trauma, even if initial X-rays don't show fractures, there may be internal injuries, such as rib fractures, soft tissue damage, or even lung involvement, which may not be evident at first.
Since the pain persists and you also have a cough, a new medical evaluation would be recommended, possibly with additional tests such as a CT scan or ultrasound. If you wish, you can schedule an appointment with our team by calling 91 005 39 00. We will be happy to help you.
Greetings.
Hello good evening 5 days ago I had a problem with a person and this person hurt me he choked me several times until I reached the point that I thought I would not be able to get out of this.. when I struggled to get out I felt faint but I felt like I was breaking inside the first time it was a snap like four the second time it was the same only this time it was on the left side. I went to the doctor they took an x-ray and they told me I did not have a fracture. but I feel a lot of pain and some clicking inside difficulty breathing and as a result of that I have not been able to go to the bathroom and pass gas it is a pain that does not go away even when I am in any way. And that already affects me even sleeping and not being able to eat since not being able to pass gas is very annoying to me.
Hello Isabella,
We are deeply sorry for what you've experienced and the pain you're experiencing. Although the X-ray showed no fractures, the symptoms you describe, such as clicking, persistent pain, difficulty breathing, and digestive issues, require further medical evaluation. We recommend that you see a specialist for a complete examination. They can identify the cause of these symptoms and offer you appropriate treatment to relieve your pain and improve your well-being. Don't hesitate to seek urgent medical help if symptoms worsen or become unbearable.
Greetings
Good morning, 6 days ago I slipped and hit the side of my breast and under my armpit on the left side with a tube. 3 days later I began to feel a slight pain in my chest, but the pain is internal. I feel it in my back at the same height as the blow. I don't have trouble breathing, but it is uncomfortable, and I also get rheumatism in my entire left arm. Is it necessary to go to the doctor?
Hello Caroline,
Since the blow is causing you pain, it would be advisable to see a doctor to rule out any complications and ensure that everything is okay. You can also receive treatment to reduce pain and help you recover properly.
Greetings.
Good afternoon:
I fell off my bike a week ago and hit my left ribs with the handlebars. The same day I fell, I developed a bruise and swelling, but it went away after four or five days. My ribs still hurt when I make certain movements, cough, sneeze, etc.
Would it be advisable for me to go to the doctor?
Thank you
All the best
Hello, thank you so much for commenting. Although the initial swelling and bruising have subsided, given that you still have pain in your ribs, it would be advisable to see a doctor. This way, they can rule out a fracture or major injury and guide you toward the most appropriate treatment for your recovery.
Greetings.
Hello, yesterday at training I hit my chest in the center and when I breathe deeply it hurts and when I move
Hello José Manuel,
In some cases, chest pain can cause muscle spasms or discomfort that can cause pain. However, it's important to undergo a medical evaluation to ensure everything is okay and rule out any injuries. Only through an in-person assessment can we determine the most appropriate treatment and what you really need in your particular case.
Greetings.
2 years ago I had a rib fracture on my right side, the seventh rib, I had a "normal" recovery without complications when the rib was healed, after 8 months or 1 year I noticed a strong stabbing pain for a few seconds in that area in a very localized way, this was very rare over time, as the months went by it became more frequent until almost 2 years later one day a pain and discomfort settled in daily that expanded and is somewhat diffuse in the area and is constant at low intensity most of the time in that area.
Is it normal for these types of after-effects to appear over the years?
Hello Roberto,
Thank you so much for sharing your experience. After a rib fracture, some people may experience persistent discomfort. However, as it has become more frequent and persistent, you should be evaluated by a doctor to rule out a muscular, nerve, or joint cause.
If you wish, you can schedule an appointment with our team of specialists who will be happy to evaluate your injury and help you find the most appropriate treatment to relieve your pain.
Greetings.
Hello, my 9-year-old daughter has a lump on her left breast. Is it normal for that lump or lump to appear?
Hello Matilda,
Thank you for commenting on our blog. In some cases, changes can occur during childhood, but it's always important to ensure they aren't serious. We recommend taking your daughter to a medical consultation so a professional can evaluate her and determine if any testing is needed.
All the best.
Hello, I'm in Hermosillo, Sonora, and I had a serious accident that caused swelling in my back, near my heart, and also in my lower back. I'd like to know which clinic I could go to here in Hermosillo, Sonora. Thank you.
Hi, thanks for your message.
We are sorry to hear about your accident. We currently do not have any clinics in Hermosillo, Sonora, as our team is located solely in Madrid, Spain.
If you require urgent evaluation, we recommend visiting a local medical facility for an examination to rule out any serious injuries. If you would like a second opinion from our specialists at any time, we would be happy to assist you.
You can contact us at +34 910 053 900.
Greetings
Hello, good day. A few months ago, while playing soccer, I was hit in the ribs (false ribs) by an elbow when jumping. The pain and discomfort lasted almost 6 weeks and then gradually decreased. I've started exercising and playing sports again, and the pain has returned, but this time I feel it internally when breathing, lying down, getting up, or making any sudden movements. I've stopped playing sports. 🙁
Hi Fernando, thanks for your message.
Based on the symptoms you describe—pain when breathing, moving, or lying down after a previous blow—it is important to rule out a rib fracture or crack. We recommend going to the emergency room for an X-ray to ensure there is no injury requiring specific care.
If you require a more detailed assessment afterwards, our team in Madrid can help you at +34 910 053 900.
Hello, I had a motorcycle accident. I fell on my back and didn't fracture anything, but the pain is unbearable. It hurts more when I try to move or cough; sometimes my ribs hurt, and sometimes my chest. What do you recommend?
Hi Henry, after a motorcycle fall with intense pain when moving, coughing, or in the ribs or chest, it's advisable to go to the emergency room to rule out significant rib, lung, or muscle injuries, even if there's no initial fracture. It's not a good idea to wait.
Hello, two weeks ago my brother hit me and put his weight on my right side of my chest. He also hit me in the rib area. Since that day I've had chest pain that makes it hard for me to make sudden movements or use my right arm because I start to get short of breath. Today I noticed a bulge under my arm, a little below my armpit. Could I have a broken rib or something like that?
Hi Pamela, after a blow to the chest with persistent pain, shortness of breath when moving and a swelling near the armpit, it is advisable to go to the emergency room to rule out rib fracture, muscle injury or lung involvement.