Sleeping with a broken rib can be incredibly difficult and uncomfortable. While the most obvious symptom of broken ribs is pain, there are other factors to consider too. Any movement or shift in position can cause your fractured ribs to rub against each other, causing excruciating pain. Additionally, lying down can put extra pressure on your rib cage, further.
How to sleep with a broken rib, it is important to take extra care to ensure your body is properly supported. A good place to start is by investing in a firm mattress and opting for the ‘side-sleeping’ position. This allows you to keep your spine aligned while decreasing pressure on your cage.
What Ribs Are and Their Functions
Ribs are an essential part of the human skeleton, forming a protective rib cage that shields the delicate organs within the thoracic cavity. The ribs originate from the thoracic vertebrae, with each pair being connected to the sternum via cartilage. This combination forms a strong yet lightweight structure that is able to protect delicate.
Causes of rib fractures
Rib fractures can be caused by a number of things, from blunt trauma to more strenuous activities. Blunt trauma is usually the result of car or motorbike accidents, fighting, and other physical activities where force is administered to the rib cage area. More often than not, those suffering from broken ribs would also have some form of chest.
Symptoms exhibited by someone with broken ribs are:
- The person can’t sleep comfortably
- Intense pain in the chest area
- Ribs hurt constantly
- Deep breathing becomes difficult and painful
- The person experiences shortness of breath
If you have broken ribs, it is important to take measures to ensure that your condition does not worsen. Depending on the severity of the injury, can range from rest and monitoring of symptoms at home to medical intervention such as pain management and physical therapy or even surgical repair.
What Are the Symptoms of Broken Ribs?
Broken ribs are a common and painful injury that can cause considerable discomfort, both when they first occur and while they heal. Symptoms of rib fractures usually involve a sharp pain in the chest area, especially when the person breathes in or moves their body in certain ways. Coughing, sneezing and laughing can also be triggers.
How Broken Ribs Affect Sleep Quality
It goes without saying that broken ribs can have a considerable impact on sleep quality. The pain associated with these fractures can be so intense that they make it hard to find a comfortable position to rest in. Additionally, any rib break or fracture can cause difficulties in breathing, making it difficult to take deep breaths and therefore decreasing the amount of oxygen flowing.
Sleep deprivation can be pretty dangerous even for a healthy person who isn’t dealing with any injuries. For instance, poor sleep is often associated with:
- Impaired cognitive functions
- Hypertension
- Increased anxiety
- Weaker immune response
Rib injuries can be incredibly painful and difficult to manage, especially when they lead to the puncture or cutting of other organs. The severity of the pain can make it hard for those affected to get a restful night of sleep. Research has found that patients dealing with rib injuries have difficulty falling asleep and are prone to restlessness and frequent.
Do Broken ribs hurt more when lying down?
Yes, broken ribs can hurt more when lying down due to the pressure that is exerted on them. This is why it is important to sit upright if you have a broken or bruised rib. Sitting upright can help reduce the amount of pressure on the affected area and make breathing more comfortable. It will also help alleviate the pain associated.
Why Do I Feel Pain When Sleeping With Rib Fractures?
When sleeping with a broken rib, it can be quite uncomfortable and painful. This is due to the change in temperature and the increased pressure on the affected area when lying down. Colder temperatures cause the body muscles to contract which can lead to discomfort and sharp pain from the fractured ribs. Additionally, coughing or sudden movements can increase rib pain due to quick and successive expansion and contraction of the chest cavity.
In order to reduce the discomfort associated with sleeping with a broken rib, it is important to ensure that you get enough rest in addition to pain relief such as ice packs or anti-inflammatory medications. It is also beneficial to sleep in a semi-upright position using several pillows for support.
How To Sleep Comfortably With Broken Ribs
Recovering from broken ribs can be a painful and frustrating process, but there are ways to make it easier. How to sleep comfortably with ribs is one of the most important questions those in recovery should consider.
The best way to sleep while recovering from fractured ribs is while sitting up in an upright position. This helps to:
Sleep Sitting Up
Sleeping while sitting upright should be accompanied by some support pillows tucked beneath your head and under your arms. This sleeping position is also beneficial for people suffering from conditions like sleep apnea and acid reflux. It can also help those with severe back pain, since it keeps the spine.
- Use backrest pillow
A backrest pillow, also known as a reading pillow, is an incredibly useful tool for anyone who needs additional support while sleeping in a seated position. It can help provide both your back and arms with the soft cushioning they need to get a good night’s rest. With its ergonomic design, it allows you to maintain proper posture so.
- A wedge pillow
A wedge pillow is a type of bedding accessory that can be used to help keep you comfortable and supported while sleeping or resting. It is designed to help elevate your body and provide support, while maintaining comfort. A wedge pillow can be used in a variety of ways, depending on what kind of relief or positioning you need.
- Chaise Lounge Chair
A Chaise Lounge Chair is a great choice for those suffering from a rib fracture who are unable to sleep in their bed. Chaise lounge chairs provide more comfort and support than a regular mattress, with armrests providing extra stability while sitting or lying down. The adjustable positions of the chair also make it easier to find the best position.
- Sleep on a Recliner
Sleeping in a recliner chair can provide great comfort and support, especially for those with back or neck pain. Recliners are designed to provide the ideal elevation and support while sleeping, allowing you to adjust your back at the touch of a button. With a recliner that can also bend forward and backward, it’s much easier.
Sleep on your back slightly elevated
When recovering from a broken rib injury, sleeping on your back is generally not recommended. However, sleeping in a slightly elevated position can provide several benefits to help you recuperate. Using a wedge pillow is the best way to do this as it supports your upper back and prevents the blood from pooling in the fractured zone by keeping your heart will be above your legs.
Use a Nursing Pillow when You Sneeze
Sneezing with broken ribs can be very painful and difficult, but there is a great solution – use a nursing pillow to help absorb the force. A nursing pillow is a soft, supportive cushion that can be used to cushion your chest when you sneeze or cough. It also offers support when you’re trying to stand.
Wedge pillows are commonly used after major surgeries, as they help reduce swelling and can aid in the healing process.
Avoid Sleeping on Your Side
When recovering from rib injury, it’s important to be mindful of your sleeping position. Avoid sleeping on your side, as the pressure on the chest can cause further damage to the already injured area. It is recommended that you sleep with your back flat against a pillow in order to take pressure off of the rib cage and allow for effective healing.
Sleep More
Getting enough sleep is essential for recovering from rib fractures and other serious injuries. Sleep gives the body time to rest and heal itself, allowing the muscles and tissues around the ribs to recover faster. Research has shown that sleeping more than 8 hours a night can help reduce pain, inflammation, and muscle strain.
Heat increases blood flow to the area of application, which can make swelling worse.
Restrict Your Movement While You Sleep
When dealing with a rib, taking necessary precautions while sleeping is essential. Restricting your movement in bed can help you manage the pain and reduce the chances of further damage. This includes avoiding turning, twisting, coughing, and stretching movements while lying down. It is easy to forget this rule during sleep so it’s important to be mindful.
Try Pain Medication and OTC Pain Relievers
People with broken rib injuries need to take care that they manage their pain effectively. Taking prescribed medications about 30 minutes before going to bed can help control the pain and provide some relief. However, it is important to be mindful of the type of medication taken since some may cause more disruption and health concerns than benefit.
BetterSleep helps you fall asleep easily with soothing sounds, sleep meditations, bedtime stories, breathing exercises and much more.
Practice Deep Breathing
When practicing deep breathing following a broken rib injury, it is important to recline in a comfortable chair or lie on your back. While doing this exercise, take slow and steady breaths that fill your lungs until they are completely full (counting to five as you inhale). Then exhale slowly and gently.
Often, broken ribs can cause difficulty taking deeper breaths and shortness of breath.
Some doctors advise sleeping on the injured side to make more room for your chest cavity’s expansion and contraction, which will help you breathe easier. Afterwards, you take another deep breath. Your doctor should tell you about this exercise, and they should also tell you how often to do it.
How Can You Reduce Pain While You Sleep?
Pain is an unfortunate reality for many people, making it difficult to get a good night’s rest. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to reduce your pain while you sleep.
The first step is to speak with your doctor about what kind of medications they recommend. Most often this means taking a prescription painkiller approximately.
Another helpful remedy for rib pain is taking over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen, naproxen sodium, and aspirin. These drugs can help reduce inflammation and alleviate swelling and discomfort. However, it’s important to take the drugs exactly as prescribed—just don’t exceed the recommended dosages.
Pain Medication
Pain relievers are a great way to relieve pain, especially when it’s not severe enough for prescription drugs. Pain relievers can come in the form of over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen and naproxen, which are known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Talk with your provider before using these medicines if you have heart disease, high blood pressure, kidney disease, liver disease, or have had stomach ulcers or internal bleeding in the past.
Coughing Safely
Coughing can be a difficult and painful experience, particularly if you have rib damage. Coughing is the body’s natural reflex to expel foreign materials and irritants from the lungs. When coughing, it is important to practice safe coughing habits in order to reduce the risk of further injury or infection.
Avoid wrapping your ribs as much as possible to prevent your lungs from collapsing. If your lungs collapsed , you risk developing lung infections.
Quitting Bad Habits
Quitting bad habits is one of the best things you can do to help your body heal from broken ribs. Quitting smoking and drinking can have a huge impact on improving your overall health and well-being, as well as helping your body heal faster. Not only will quitting reduce the risk of further injury due to reckless behavior, it will take you longer to heal.
Sleeping as Much as Possible
Sleep is important for the body’s natural healing process, especially when recovering from an injury or illness. Sleeping for at least 8 hours a night and taking a nap during the day if you feel tired are highly recommended for those suffering from broken bones. Doing so can not only speed up the healing process, but also ensure that your body has enough:
- Ensuring your resting environment is cool, dark, and quiet
- Avoid drinking alcohol or caffeine before going to bed
- Refrain from eating at least 2 hours before you go to bed
- Turn off all computers, TVs, tablets, and phones
Eating Healthy
Eating nutritious and well-balanced meals are not just important for overall health, but also for the healing process. When a person sustains an injury, their body needs the right amount of vitamins, proteins and minerals to build and maintain new tissues, aiding in the healing process. Eating dairy products is an especially essential part of this equation.
Dairy products are packed with a variety of essential nutrients that can help speed up recovery after an injury. Calcium is a particularly important mineral found in dairy that helps build strong bones and teeth, as well as aiding in muscle repair. Vitamin D is also found in many dairy products and is important for the absorption of calcium, helping to ensure.
Be Physically Active
When you have suffered a rib injury, it is important to take the necessary steps to ensure a speedy recovery. Rest is essential for healing and allowing your body to recuperate; however, sleeping all day long can be detrimental to your rest as well as the overall healing process. It is beneficial to engage in light physical activities such as slow walking around the house, to help keep you active.
Find the Best Treatment Plan
When dealing with broken ribs, it is important to take the necessary steps to ensure proper healing. Find the best treatment plan for your unique situation by consulting with a medical professional. While there are various sleeping positions that may be suitable for those suffering from ribs, it is vital to recognize that all patients have different needs and preferences.
How Long Does It Take For Broken Ribs To Heal
Healing from broken ribs can be a long and slow process, depending on the severity of the injury. On average, it takes at least 6-8 weeks for bones to heal, but this time frame can vary significantly. Minor fractures that don’t involve organ damage or infection typically heal within 6 weeks, while rib fractures that require surgery may.
Heavier individuals might want to stick to medium-firm or even firm models, and lightweight sleepers should pick medium to medium-soft mattresses. Larger folks require sturdier support while petite individuals need something softer to avoid painful pressure points.
Closing Thoughts
Dealing with broken ribs can be a difficult and painful experience. It is important to take the time to learn about how best to manage this situation, so that you can have a comfortable healing process. Taking the proper precautions will ensure that you are able to sleep with a fractured rib without exacerbating the injury.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What helps broken ribs heal faster?
Broken ribs are very common injuries, and they can be quite painful. Fortunately, there are several things that you can do to help your ribs heal faster. The most important thing is to make sure that you maintain a diet that is high in protein and calcium. These nutrients will help your body build strong bones and tissue which will aid.
- Should you stay in bed with broken ribs?
No, staying in bed when you have broken ribs is not recommended. It is important to stay active and move around as much as possible while being mindful of the pain and discomfort associated with rib fractures. Doing light exercises such as walking or stretching can help prevent a partial lung collapse and pneumonia. Additionally, it may be beneficial to use a spirometer.
- How to get out of bed with broken ribs?
Getting in and out of bed when you have ribs can be extremely painful and difficult. To reduce the discomfort and help you keep your ribs in place while moving, use this method to help you enter or exit the bed. First, grab whatever clothing you are wearing with both hands and tighten it around yourself as much as possible.
- How do you sleep with a bruised or cracked rib?
Sleeping with a bruised or cracked rib can be a significant challenge. However, there are certain techniques that you can use in order to make the process as comfortable and restful as possible. In the first few nights after an injury, it is recommended to sleep in a semi-upright position propped up by pillows under.
- Is a heating pad good for broken ribs?
No, it is not recommended to use a heating pad for treatment of broken ribs or any other fracture or injury. Heating pads can increase inflammation and pain in the affected area, which can slow down the healing process. Furthermore, it could even worsen the condition if the temperature is too hot. Ice packs are considered to be a much better.
- What should you not do with broken ribs?
It is important to avoid any activity that could cause further damage or harm when suffering from broken ribs. This means no taking part in extreme activities such as playing football, golf, running, pushing, pulling or lifting anything over ten pounds. Additionally, it is recommended to avoid going to the gym.
- Do broken ribs ever heal?
Yes, broken ribs can heal over time. The recovery period will vary depending on the severity of the fracture and any associated injuries. Generally speaking, recovery from a minor rib fracture can take anywhere from four to eight weeks, while more serious fractures may take up to two months or more.
- Is bed rest good for broken ribs?
When recovering from a broken rib, it is important to get the right balance between rest and activity. Bed rest is important in order to allow the ribs to properly heal, but too much bed rest can cause the muscles in the area to become tight and stiff. This can lead to further complications and even slow down the healing process.
- Does broken rib pain get worse before it gets better?
When it comes to broken rib pain, the initial period of recovery can be extremely uncomfortable. The pain typically starts off at its worst and stays this way for one or two weeks before beginning to get better. However, if the pain remains strong or even gets worse after three weeks, it is essential to visit a doctor as soon as possible.
- When can I return to work after broken ribs?
When it comes to returning to work after a broken rib, it is important to listen to the advice of your health care specialist and follow their instructions. Before you can get back to work, your X-rays will need to be assessed in order to determine the extent of the fracture.