Question
Hi,
I am 33 weeks pregnant and have had issues with pregnancy induced asthma which has led me to have a lot of coughing/wheezing problems. Due to the excessive coughing, I have injured a rib on my right side. At first it was just sore when I coughed or moved the wrong way but two days ago, I coughed and heard a pop and now it is very painful. I am finding it difficult to sleep and at times deep breathing makes it hurt as well as if I'm being stabbed. I did go to the Dr. and I can't get an x-ray but they think it's a muscular issue. They did give me Tylenol 3's with codeine to take if necessary which I have a couple of times but don't find it that helpful to me. I have been to the chiropractor and to massages as well but have not had anything help. I also have used ice. I know there's not much you can do for a rib injury but I thought I'd see if you had any alternative pain management suggestions so that I can re-cooperate in time for the baby.
Thanks for you time.
Michelle

Answer
Hi Michelle

Thanks for your question.

As you said, ribs are a difficult injury to do much about. I think you're on the right track. After using ice for a few days, I'd start to alternate ice and heat; ice to keep inflammation down, heat to encourage circulation and healing.

Try to maintain some mobility, primarily through walking, unless you doctor has said otherwise. A physical therapist may have some ideas about other modalities (electrical stimulation) that might maintain flexibility and promote healing.

In terms of handling the pain while you are in the healing process, I would recommend some type of regular relaxation/meditation process. A good meditation for health related issues is called body scan meditation. You can probably find information about it online, but the source book, which is very good, is Full Catastrophe Living, by Jon Kabat-Zinn.

Good luck to you and baby.

Barry Hughes

http://www.chronic-pain-alternatives.com