[email protected] | February 20, 2025 | Personal Injury Lawyer Near Columbus Georgia
The sternum, also called the “breastbone,” plays an important role in human anatomy. Located in the center of the chest, it connects the left and right ribs to form a protective cage for the heart, lungs, and major blood vessels. A fracture in the sternum could cause severe complications.
What Causes A Sternum Fracture?
The sternum is a strong, flat bone that’s not easy to damage. However, a direct impact, such as one that might happen after a high fall, can fracture this bone. A car crash or a high-impact sports injury could also cause a sternal fracture.
Some people are at higher risk for injuring their sternums:
- Older adults
- People who use steroids for an extended time
- Postmenopausal women
- People with osteoporosis or thoracic kyphosis
Concerns about the elderly incurring rib and sternum fractures from seat belts during motor vehicle accidents have some healthcare experts questioning the design of auto safety systems.
Symptoms Of A Sternum Fracture
The sternum is in a constant up-and-down motion, changing positions with each breath. One of the first signs of a sternum fracture is discomfort while breathing. Deep breaths, laughing, or coughing usually make the pain worse. Other symptoms of this injury include:
- Bruising in the area
- Tenderness when touched
- Non-radiating pain in the sternum area
- A sudden onset of pain in the chest after some type of impact or fall
If you’re experiencing discomfort in the area of your sternum after a traumatic event like falling off a bicycle, follow up with your healthcare provider.
Sternum fractures typically heal without invasive medical interventions, but complications can occur. If the fractured part of the bone moves, for example, it can injure blood vessels or organs. Sternal fractures can also indicate the possibility of cardiac and pulmonary contusions (bruises), or damage to the aorta.
If no additional injuries are discovered, the recommended treatment is usually rest and anti-inflammatory medications. Painkillers may be prescribed if needed. Surgery to realign the bone may be required if the sternum is displaced.
What To Expect During Recovery
The average time for recovery from a broken sternum is around 10 weeks. During that time, the injured person may not be able to work. They might need to go to follow-up appointments and, sometimes, physical therapy sessions.
Chest infections are a common concern during sternal fracture recovery.
Your healthcare provider will provide a list of recommendations for preventing an infection, which may include:
- Take deep breaths at regular intervals throughout the day
- Do not take cough medicine
- Allow yourself to cough as needed
- Support the chest wall when coughing, sneezing, or laughing
People who develop a fever, cough up discolored phlegm, or feel short of breath should contact their doctor immediately. These are warning signs of infection.
Because a fractured sternum requires many weeks of rest, you may experience stiffness in your arms, shoulders, or spine as you recover. Your doctor may refer you to a physical therapist to help increase mobility and reduce pain and stiffness.
A Fractured Sternum Is A Serious Injury — Don’t Ignore The Symptoms
If you’ve experienced a physical impact and have symptoms of a fractured sternum, seek medical attention. Bruising, pain in the area, or pain while laughing or coughing may indicate an injury.
Most sternal fractures heal without invasive medical care, but if the sternum is displaced or a vital organ has been injured, serious and even life-threatening complications could follow.
Recovery can take many weeks. Medical bills, lost wages, and costs of ongoing care add up quickly. Consider speaking with a personal injury attorney to learn whether you’re entitled to financial compensation for a broken sternum.
Contact the Columbus Personal Injury Lawyers at Mark Casto Personal Injury Law Firm Today
If you were injured in an accident in Columbus, GA, and need legal help, contact our Columbus personal injury lawyers at Mark Casto Personal Injury Law Firm to schedule a free case review today.
Mark Casto Personal Injury Law Firm
233 12th St #808
Columbus, GA 31901
(706) 940-4030
