A broken rib is a crack or break in one of the bones of the rib cage. It can be very painful because the muscles used for breathing pull on the rib. In most cases, a broken rib will heal on its own within six weeks. Here are some things you can do to help ease pain and speed up healing:

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

• Apply an ice pack 20 minutes of every hour you are awake for the first 2 days, then 10 to 20 minutes 3 times daily as needed to reduce pain and swelling.

• Hold an ice pack (or a bag of frozen peas in a tea towel) to the affected ribs regularly in the first few days to bring down swelling.

• Rest and take time off work if you need to.

• Breathe normally and cough when you need to. This helps clear mucus from your lungs to prevent chest infections.

• Stay active while avoiding movements that put pressure on your injury.

• Eat a variety of healthy foods, and dont smoke.

Its important to relieve pain, as not being able to breathe deeply because of pain can lead to pneumonia. If medicines taken by mouth dont help enough, shots can numb the nerves that lead to the ribs. If you think you have a broken rib, you should see a healthcare provider as soon as possible. Go to the emergency room if you experience any of the following: difficulty breathing, chest pain, dizziness, or loss of consciousness.