How To Sleep With Broken Ribs?

This site contains affiliate links to products. We may receive a commission for purchases made through these links.

Sleeping with broken ribs can be difficult, but it is not impossible. However, you can do a few things to make the process easier. In this article, we will discuss some of the best ways to sleep with broken ribs. We will also provide tips for making healing faster and less painful!

What Are Ribs?

Ribs are a type of bone that is located in the chest. They protect the lungs and other organs in the chest cavity. Ribs are connected to the spine by muscles and ligaments. There are 12 pairs of ribs, which are divided into three different categories:

  • True ribs, which are the first seven pairs of ribs, are those that connect directly to the sternum or breastbone.
  • The next three pairs of ribs are called false ribs because they are not attached to the sternum. Instead, they attach to the cartilage of the rib above them.
  • The last two pairs of ribs are called floating ribs because they do not attach to anything in front of them. Instead, floating ribs only attach to the vertebrae in the back.

Ribs can be broken by car accidents, falls, or other traumatic events. Rib fractures are usually very painful because they involve the bones and muscles in the chest. It can be difficult to breathe, cough, or even move when you have broken ribs. Rib fracture symptoms include severe rib pain, tenderness when touching the area, and difficulty breathing or coughing.

How To Sleep With Broken Ribs

Function Of Ribs 

The primary function of ribs is to protect the organs in the chest cavity. The ribs also help us breathe by expanding and contracting as we inhale and exhale. However, broken ribs can make it difficult to breathe because they limit the movement of the chest muscles.

Types Of Rib Injuries

There are three different types of rib injuries:

  • A fracture is a break in the bone. For example, a fractured rib can be caused by car accidents, falls, or other traumatic events.
  • A dislocation occurs when the joint between the rib and spine is moved out of place. This can happen if you fall on your back or receive a direct blow to the front of your chest.
  • A sprain occurs when the ligaments that attach the ribs to the spine are stretched or torn. This can happen if you twist your torso or receive a direct blow to the side of your chest.

Rib Cage

The rib cage is made up of the ribs and their attached muscles. The rib cage protects the heart, lungs, and other organs in the chest cavity. The ribs also help us breathe by expanding and contracting as we inhale and exhale. Rib injury can cause severe pain in the chest. The pain may worsen when you take a deep breath, cough, or move around. You may also feel tenderness when touching the injured area. In addition, it may be difficult to breathe or cough due to the pain. In some cases, the rib may puncture the skin and cause a bruise or lump.

Symptoms Of A Broken Rib:

Some of the symptoms of a broken rib are as follows:

  • Severe pain in the chest
  • Difficulty in deep breathing
  • Tenderness when touching the affected area
  • Swelling or bruising around the injured area
Types Of Rib Injuries

Sleep Position With Fractured Ribs

When you are sleeping with broken ribs, it is essential to find a position that is comfortable and will not put too much pressure on the injured area. Here are a few positions to fall asleep:

Sleep On Your Back:

This position will allow you to keep your head and spine in alignment. In addition, placing a pillow under your knees may help relieve pressure on your lower back.

Sleep On Your Side:

If you sleep on your side, it is essential to keep your spine straight. You can place a pillow between your knees to help keep your hips and pelvis aligned.

Sleep In A Recliner:

Sleeping in a recliner can take some of the pressure off of your chest and make it easier to breathe. You may want to place a pillow behind your back for support.

Taking Deep Breaths:

One of the best things you can do for broken ribs is to practice deep breathing. This will help keep your lungs expanded and prevent pneumonia. It is also an excellent way to relieve pain.

Use Ice:

Applying ice to the injured area can help reduce swelling and pain. Ice should be applied for 20 minutes and not be placed directly on the skin.

Use Pain Medication:

If you are in severe pain, over-the-counter medication may not be enough to relieve your symptoms. You may need to take prescription pain medication. Be sure to follow the instructions on the label carefully.

Get Plenty Of Rest:

It is essential to get plenty of rest when you have broken ribs. This will help your body heal and reduce pain. Also, avoid activities requiring you to use your chest muscles.

Coughing Safely:

Coughing is essential to help clear your lungs, but it can be excruciating. To cough safely, take a deep breath and then let the air out slowly. You may want to put a pillow over your chest to protect your ribs.

You can do a few things to ease the discomfort of broken ribs. Taking deep breaths and using ice may help reduce pain and swelling. You may also need to take pain medication. Get plenty of rest and avoid activities that require you to use your chest muscles. With time, your ribs will heal, and you’ll feel better.

Tips For Healing

There are a few things you can do to help the healing process:

  • Rest: It is important to rest as much as possible so your body can heal.
  • Ice: Applying ice to the injured area can help reduce pain and swelling.
  • Compression: Wearing a compression garment can help support the injured area and reduce swelling.
  • Elevation: Keeping the injured area elevated above your heart can help reduce swelling.

Broken ribs are a severe injury that can be very painful. However, there are some things you can do to make the healing process more manageable. With proper care and treatment, you will be on your way to recovery in no time.

Symptoms Of A Broken Rib

Sleep With Multiple Broken Ribs

You can do a few things to make sleep with broken ribs more comfortable. Try sleeping on your side or propped up on pillows. You may also find it helpful to wear a loose-fitting shirt or blouse. Be sure to avoid lying flat on your back, as this can increase pressure on your lungs and cause difficulty breathing. If you are having trouble sleeping, ask your doctor about taking pain medication. With a little bit of trial and error, you should be able to find a position that is comfortable and will help you get a good night’s sleep.

Conclusion

Broken ribs are a common injury caused by car accidents, falls, or other traumatic events. Rib fractures are usually very painful because they involve the bones and muscles in the chest. It can be difficult to breathe, cough, or even move when you have broken ribs. The primary function of ribs is to protect the organs in the chest cavity. The ribs also help us breathe by expanding and contracting as we inhale and exhale. Broken ribs can make it difficult to breathe because they limit the movement of the chest muscles.

Article You Might Enjoy Reading

How To Break the Cycle Of Health Anxiety
Do Oil Diffusers Help You Sleep
Best Air Purifier for Sleeping
Best Essential Oil Diffuser
How Long To Run Air Purifier In Bedroom

Images Courtesy of DepositPhotos
This site contains affiliate links to products. We will receive a commission for purchases made through these links.
Special offer for our visitors

Get your Free Stress Management Guide

We will never send you spam. By signing up for this you agree with our privacy policy and to receive regular updates via email in regards to industry news and promotions