Chest Pain After a Fall: Causes and Treatment Options

When slipping and falling, I felt a vibration in my chest, followed by chest pain?

(1) The reason for the chest pain after falling while sitting down could be due to a few factors.
It is possible that the impact caused a strain or injury to the muscles or cartilage in the chest area, such as costochondritis, which is inflammation of the cartilage connecting the ribs to the sternum.
Another possibility is a rib contusion or fracture, which can occur even without direct trauma to the chest if the force of the fall was significant enough.
(2) To treat the pain, it is recommended to continue using ice packs on the affected area for 15-20 minutes every hour as needed to reduce inflammation and swelling.
Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage the pain.
Rest is also crucial, and you should avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities until the pain subsides.
Recovery time can vary depending on the severity of the injury, but mild strains may improve within a few days to a week, while more severe injuries could take longer.
(3) The pain during deep breathing may be due to the strain on the chest muscles or irritation of the rib cartilage.
When you raise your arms, it may change the position of the rib cage and reduce pressure on the affected area, leading to less pain.
While it is generally safe to take pain medication as directed, it is important not to exceed the recommended dosage and to consult a healthcare provider if pain persists or worsens.
Ice therapy can be applied for the first 48 hours after the injury, and then you can switch to heat therapy if it feels more comfortable.
If symptoms do not improve or if you experience increased pain, difficulty breathing, or other concerning symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical attention.

Lin An'an, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/02/09

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics

1.
It is possible to have blunt trauma to the sternum due to the transmission of pressure, similar to how sitting down abruptly can injure the lumbar spine, potentially leading to a compression fracture of the lumbar vertebrae.

2.
For medication treatment, local heat application can be started after three days, along with a reduction in physical activity or movement.

3.
Ice application is sufficient for just one or two days.
Pain relievers should be taken based on the level of pain; once improvement is noted, the dosage can be reduced or discontinued.

Reply Date: 2021/02/09

More Info

Experiencing chest pain after a fall can be concerning, and it's important to understand the potential causes and treatment options available. Based on your description, it seems that you have sustained some form of trauma to your chest area, which is causing significant discomfort. Let's address your questions one by one.

1. Why does falling and landing on your buttocks cause chest pain?
When you fall and land on your buttocks, the impact can cause a jarring effect on your entire body, including your chest. This can lead to muscle strains, rib injuries, or even contusions in the chest area. The chest wall is made up of muscles, ribs, and cartilage, and any trauma can result in pain due to inflammation or injury to these structures. Additionally, the force of the fall may have caused your rib cage to compress, leading to pain in the chest area. It's also possible that you may have sustained a rib fracture or a costochondral injury, which can cause sharp pain, especially during movement or deep breathing.

2. How to treat the pain and how long will it take to heal?
Treatment for chest pain following a fall typically involves rest, ice application, and over-the-counter pain relief. Since you mentioned using ice, continue to apply it for 15-20 minutes every hour as needed for the first 48 hours to reduce swelling and numb the pain. Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. However, it's crucial to follow the recommended dosage and not exceed it. If the pain persists or worsens, or if you experience difficulty breathing, it is essential to seek medical attention. Recovery time can vary depending on the severity of the injury, but mild strains or contusions may take a few days to a couple of weeks to heal, while more severe injuries could take longer.

3. Why does it hurt to breathe deeply, and why is it less painful when raising your arms?
Pain during deep breathing is often due to irritation or injury to the muscles or ribs in the chest area. When you take a deep breath, your rib cage expands, which can exacerbate pain if there is an injury. Raising your arms may change the position of your rib cage and relieve some pressure on the injured area, making it feel less painful. However, this is not a long-term solution, and you should avoid movements that cause pain.

Regarding the use of pain medication, it is generally safe to take NSAIDs as directed for a short period. However, if you find that you need to take them continuously for more than a few days, or if the pain does not improve, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. They may recommend further evaluation, such as imaging studies (like X-rays) to rule out fractures or other serious injuries.

In summary, while chest pain after a fall can be alarming, it is often manageable with rest, ice, and appropriate pain relief. Monitor your symptoms closely, and do not hesitate to seek medical attention if you experience worsening pain, difficulty breathing, or any other concerning symptoms. Your health and safety are paramount, and a healthcare provider can offer the best guidance tailored to your specific situation.

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