My brother broke three ribs by the sternum L (aortic) and went to urgent care they told him he has to be off work 6 weeks but just started a new job. He is a heavy equipment operator and using aleve. He went to urgent care for the x-ray and that is how he was diagnosed. Now, no problems breathing, no blood, no discolored sputum and yet, he is having difficulty just maneuvering simple controls or turning side to side. He read he should not wrap because of restriction. He cannot take off work any suggestions on how to support his cage?
Thanks for your question on Chat Doctor. In my opinion your brother is having muscle stiffness due to injury. Ribs must be healed by now but due to immobilization muscles become stiff and initial movements are painful. So for few days he may have pinsetter to follow these for symptomatic relief. 1. Avoid heavy weight lifting and strenuous exercise. 2. Avoid bad postures in sleep. 3. Take good painkiller and muscle relaxant. 4. Apply warm water pad on affected site. 5. Wear chest belt to avoid mobilization of affected area.