Question
Good Morning,
First of all thank you for taking the time to answer my question. Well, about a week and a half ago(almost 2 weeks) I was practicing Brazilian Jiujitsu. While sparring my partner had put his hand on end of my ribcage located almost directly over my heart. Once he applied his weight downward in this spot I bridge my body upward and twisted my upper torso to the right side. Once I twisted I felt and hear a POP in my rib area. I imnediately stood up and wasn't in too much pain. Went right to the hospital and no broken ribs. However, when I lay down or move my body I feel a "pop" at the end of my ribs closer towards my chest near the top of my abs on the left side. I can contort my body a bit and the pop will go in and out. I've tried expanding my lungs all the way last night and when I did I hear a loud pop again. Almost as if it went back in place. Is there a way I should care for the injury so the cartlidge stays in place to heal? any advice would be appreciated because I would much love to continue practicing Jiujitsu and not have to quit forever because of this injury.

Answer
James,

These are very difficult conditions to deal with.  I have not seen or read anything about how to stabilize these cartilage defects.   You should just try to wait it out as scar tissue attempts to heal the damaged area.   If you are young and in good shape, you will be able to to back to training.  

'Best,

Dr. G