It is hard to tell if you have a rib fracture or just a chest contusion (bruise). Rib fractures can be diagnosed with X-rays or CT scans of the chest. In general, rib fractures are treated with pain control and time, so your father is correct. Because of the abundant network of muscle and connective tissue holding each rib in place most rib fractures are actually held in place pretty well and heal fine without a need for repair.