Cracked ribs can be very painful, but usually heal by themselves within 3 to 6 weeks. Here are some things you can do to help ease pain and speed up healing:

• Take painkillers: such as paracetamol or ibuprofen. Avoid taking ibuprofen for 48 hours after your injury as it may slow down healing.

• Apply ice: an ice pack or a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a towel can be applied to the affected ribs regularly in the first few days to bring down swelling.

• Rest: being less active and avoiding movements that put pressure on your injury is important for healing and pain relief.

• Breathing exercises: do slow deep-breathing and gentle coughing exercises every 2 hours to help prevent a partial lung collapse and pneumonia. Holding a pillow or blanket against your injured rib can make these less painful.

• Stay active: while avoiding movements that put painful pressure on your ribs. Talk to your healthcare provider about how much activity you should do with a broken rib.

If you think you have a cracked rib, its important to see a healthcare provider as soon as possible. Go to the emergency room if you experience any of the following: severe pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, or coughing up blood.