How to Treat Bruised Ribs

Video Transcript

"You know for those of us that participate in sporting events or high activity types of situations, many times we can take a shot to the abdominal cavity or the rib area. Hi I'm Captain Joe Bruni and what I want to talk about is how to treat bruised ribs. The patient experiencing a bruise to the rib cage area will cover the area in what's known as guarding. When that occurs remove the patient's hands to assess the area. And apply some type of cold compress such as this commercially bought cold pack or even ice. When using any type of cold material like ice or this cold pack, do not apply it directly to the skin. As this can cause a cold or burn injury. Place the ice or cold material in some type of covering like a rag, or other type of cloth that can be placed over the rib area. It can be held in place for as long as fifteen minutes. It should be removed after the application of fifteen minutes to avoid a cold burn injury to the area. After removal allow the skin surface temperature to rewarm itself. After rewarming has occurred the cold compress can be once again applied for as little as ten to fifteen minutes. In this way the bruise will begin to heal itself and the cold will reduce pain and swelling. Over the counter pain relievers, such as Tylenol, Ibuprofen can be taken to help reduce that pain sensation. Ribs will begin to heal itself in a short amount of time. The patient should remember that when they come in contact with people to guard that area so over zealous friends do not hug you to hard and cause further injury. I'm Captain Joe Bruni stay safe and we'll see you next time."