Injuries to the Sternum: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

The sternum, or breastbone, is a long flat bone located in the center of the chest. It plays a crucial role in protecting the vital organs of the chest, such as the heart and lungs. Injuries to the sternum can be painful and debilitating, and understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options is essential for proper management.

Causes of sternum injuries:

– Trauma: The most common cause of sternum injuries is trauma, such as a car accident, fall, or sports-related injury. The force of impact can cause the sternum to fracture or bruise, leading to pain and discomfort.

– Repetitive strain: Activities that involve repetitive movements of the chest, such as weightlifting or rowing, can also cause sternum injuries. Over time, these movements can put stress on the sternum and lead to inflammation or micro-tears.

– Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as osteoporosis or arthritis, can weaken the bones and make them more susceptible to injury. In some cases, a sternum injury may occur spontaneously without any apparent cause.

Symptoms of sternum injuries:

– Pain: The most common symptom of a sternum injury is pain in the chest area. The pain may be sharp or dull, and it may worsen with movement or deep breathing.

– Swelling: In some cases, there may be swelling or tenderness around the sternum, especially if there is a fracture or bruise.

– Difficulty breathing: An injury to the sternum can make it painful to take deep breaths, as the movements of the chest wall can aggravate the injury.

– Bruising or discoloration: In cases of severe trauma, there may be visible bruising or discoloration around the sternum.

Treatment of sternum injuries:

– Rest and ice: In most cases, mild sternum injuries can be treated with rest and ice to reduce pain and inflammation. Avoiding strenuous activities that exacerbate the pain is important for healing.

– Pain medication: Over-the-counter pain medication, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help alleviate the discomfort associated with sternum injuries.

– Physical therapy: In cases of severe injuries or fractures, physical therapy may be recommended to help improve strength and range of motion in the chest and surrounding muscles.

– Surgery: In rare cases of severe fractures or dislocations, surgery may be necessary to realign the bones and stabilize the sternum.

– Prevention: To prevent sternum injuries, it is important to practice proper body mechanics during physical activities, wear protective gear when necessary, and maintain good bone health through a balanced diet and regular exercise.

In conclusion, injuries to the sternum can cause significant pain and discomfort, but with proper treatment and care, most people can recover fully. If you experience chest pain or suspect a sternum injury, it is important to seek medical attention promptly to prevent further complications. By understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for sternum injuries, you can take the necessary steps to ensure a prompt and successful recovery.