Rib fractures in the elderly take longer to heal than other bones because they move more frequently than other bones. Healing time for rib fractures is up to six weeks.
You’re curious to know how long it takes an elderly person to recover from a broken rib. And how can the healing process be accelerated? To learn the solution, keep reading.
Factors to Consider With Patients With Rib Fracture
In many ways, treating a trauma-related rib fracture in an elderly patient—and preventing respiratory problems like pneumonia—requires more art than science. Or, to put it another way, geriatric patients with this injury require care that is tailored to them specifically and individually.
The following factors are essential to consider when assessing elderly patients presenting with rib fracture:
Spectrum of Injury
One broken rib or polytrauma may occur in older trauma patients who sustain rib fractures. The 2004 study found that mortality significantly rises when four or more ribs are broken.
Patient’s Age
One simple rib fracture in a 90-year-old person could put them at the same risk as eight rib fractures in a 40-year-old.
Health Status before Injury
Due to differences in older adults’ health before a fracture, a strong 70-year-old with four rib fractures may recover well after the injury, whereas a 60-year-old with two rib fractures and numerous comorbidities may require transfer to a Level I Trauma Center.
The best care will be given when considering a patient as a whole, taking into account the aforementioned elements as well as the patient’s pulmonary function, mobility, and resources. It would not be fair to the patient to have a straightforward rule that says anyone with three or fewer rib fractures can go home.
How Long Do Broken Ribs Take to Heal in Elderly?
Simple rib fractures are typically managed at home. Others, like wounds from a serious accident, might need to be treated in a hospital first. Either way, you’ll have a pain-management plan in place upon your return home.
The majority of the treatment for rib breaks is supportive. Therefore, other than time and patience, you won’t need surgery or any other type of intervention. Hard bone must eventually replace soft bone in order for the fracture to heal.
Rib fractures rarely require surgery. When there are other injuries (like those to the lung, for example), in addition to multiple rib fractures, it might be necessary.
Fractures of the ribs typically heal on their own. That doesn’t mean it’s smooth sailing, though. The discomfort can make it challenging to breathe normally, cough, and carry out daily activities. In order to manage your pain effectively while you heal, it is crucial.
It’s crucial to prevent further falls if you’re an older adult and your injury resulted from a fall. Think about asking your healthcare provider about local resources or self-help options.
How to Speed Up Recovery from a Rib Fracture?
Things You Can Do
- Take painkillers, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen – avoid taking ibuprofen for 48 hours after your injury as it may slow down healing
- 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
- If you need to cough, hold a pillow against your chest
- Walk around and sometimes move your shoulders to help you breathe and clear mucus from your lungs
- Take 10 slow, deep breaths every hour to help clear your lungs
- Try to sleep more upright for the first few nights
Things You Must Avoid
- Do not wrap a bandage tightly around your chest to stop your lungs expanding properly
- Do not lie down or stay still for a long time
- Do not strain yourself or lift heavy objects
- Do not play any sports or do any exercise that makes your pain worse
- Do not smoke – stopping smoking may also help your recovery
What If the Pain from a Broken Rib is Getting Worse?
Make sure you’re not engaging in any activities that could exacerbate the injury if your rib pain is getting worse. Get immediate medical attention if your symptoms change or get worse, such as if you experience more pain, a fever, or increased shortness of breath. Call 911 or visit an emergency room if you’ve been in an accident and you’re worried about your health or safety.
It’s crucial to follow up with a medical professional. With each additional rib broken, the risk of pneumonia (lung infection) in people 65 years of age and older rises by 27%, as does the risk of death. The need to seek medical attention for any symptoms that are new or worrisome stems from this.
Summary
Rib fracture healing is a gradual process that calls for persistence. It usually takes about 6 weeks to heal completely. A senior should seek medical attention if they experience new symptoms like increased pain, fever, or shortness of breath.
