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Question
I slipped on a wet floor and fell 10 days ago landing hard on my left rib cage on a large plastic drum. The whole left side of my rib cage was bruised red and cut. This has now almost healed. However, at the same time I've suffered from pain closer to where my heart is. The pain feels sore and achey and runs across the base of my left breast. It has stopped hurting when I breathe but still hurts if I cough or laugh or do anything physical. Lying on it at night to sleep is also uncomfortable. At first I suspected I'd cracked a rib and didn't bother with x-rays but now I'm concerned it may be something different as it feels more muscular? Pls advise.
Ribs take forever to heal, especially the lower 6. I would give it another 2 weeks, if it still hurts, follow up with your doctor. Ice it down when you can, this will help tremendously with the inflammation. Ibuprophen may help, but Relafin is better. You need a prescription for that.
If you do have a rib fracture near the heart, this can puncture the lung and/or induce pericarditis (inflammation of the sac that surrounds the heart). This can be fatal. Since this happend 10 days ago, I wouldn't worry too much about that. It will keep improving with time, be patient.
Good Luck
Dr. Timothy Durnin
drs.chiroweb.com
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Dr. Timothy K. Durnin
Expertise
Anything Chiropractic related, Internal Medicine, Neurology, Hematology, Physical Therapy, Orthopedics Herniated or Slipped disc problems, Sciatica, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Spinal Injuries, Arthritis, Nutritional Advice, Diet and exercise, Supplement Knowledge, Orthotics, Laser Therapy, Pinched Nerves, Imaging Interpretation,(X-ray, MRI, Ultrasound, CT ect), any and all Neuromusculoskeletal Disorders. Expert Witness for 19 yrs, dealing with Medical Malpractice, Personal Injury, Workman's Compensation, Medicare and HIPPA issues. Active in clinical practice for 16+ yrs, I am a second generation Chiropractor, my father practiced for over 50 yrs in private practice and as a Diplomat in Radiology (DACBR) Currently on staff at Olympia Fields Osteopathic Hospital, active in private practice with several disciplines including Pediatrics, Orthopedic Surgery, Family Practice, IME's and Internal Medicine M.D.'s.
Experience
I own or am actively involved with 24 multidisciplinary clinics in the Chicago area employing M.D.'s, Orthopedic Surgeons, Pediatrics and Family Practice. My home practice is a continuation of my fathers which has existed for more than 55 yrs.
Organizations
AASP, ACA, ICS, AASP, AOPA, CPA, BBB, FCER, PADI
Education/Credentials
B.S./D.C. National College of Chiropractic 1991
Board Certified AMA impairment ratings.
Presidential Cabinet Member NUHS.
Phi Theta Kappa National honorary fraternity
Awards and Honors
Phi Theta Kappa/Who's Who in America
Chiropractor of the year award 2001
Past/Present Clients
Many Chicago Bulls players
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