what can I do for a cracked rib?

Cooked · #1 (**permalink**) 01-10-2010, 09:11 AM

I cracked a rib leaning on the side and cleaning deep down in the freezer. I heard a POP and then there was extreme pain. I actually saw

stars. It is so painful, I can hardly do a thing. There is no point in waiting hours in an emerg room since they cannot do anything for it.
I would love to take something to help relieve the spasms etc. I have heard of Valerian, but I don't know anyone who has taken it. I know there are herb educated people on the board and I would love to hear from you! I would also love to know what you did for manangement if you cracked a rib before. I need to be active! or at least able to sleep!

**bar_bar** · #2 (**permalink**) 02-19-2010, 04:13 PM

watched my husband cracked ribs before from coughing, he did this about 3 different times, so my heart goes out to you.
You right there is nothing they can do, they gave me a tight wrap to wrap it up in.
and time will heal.
be careful you do not make it worse, or injury it while it is healing.

Cooked · #3 (**permalink**) 02-19-2010, 08:30 PM

Bar-bar, thank you for your words. It has been a while now and I still feel pain. It does take a long, long time, and you certainly need to be patient and careful. It is just very tiring to say the least. I can't imagine what your poor husband must have gone through! It sounds just awful!

HAPPY6 · #4 (**permalink**) 02-25-2010, 06:36 AM

I've never had a cracked rib but I do know people that have. I've been told it is very painful. The only thing I've ever heard of doing for this is wrapping. Cooked, take it easy and be careful not to hurt it more. I hope you heal very quickly and the pain lessens. Take Care.....

Cooked · #5 (**permalink**) 03-01-2010, 07:33 PM

Thanks for your well wishes! I am doing much better now. There is still pain but it is manageable. Who knew there would be pain this long? I now have an infected tooth and it is almost as painful as the rib was! I am ready to give up! Thanks again!

HAPPY6 · #6 (**permalink**) 03-05-2010, 10:50 AM

Glad you're feeling better. I know a tooth ache is painful!!! Hope you get to a dentist soon. Take Care...Hugs...

goldeagle1 · #7 (**permalink**) 03-05-2010, 05:38 PM

My dd had cracked a couple of ribs last summer. Her doc recommended that she get a snug high-waist tummy control type of garment. She got one that went on like a vest (it came up to right under her bra) with hook & eye closures in the front. It really helped deal with the pain.

Hope that this helps!