A sternal injury refers to any damage or trauma to the sternum, which is the flat bone located at the center of the chest that connects the ribs. Sternal injuries can range from mild to severe, and may occur as a result of various accidents or medical conditions.
Some common causes of sternal injuries include:
Blunt trauma, such as a car accident, fall, or sports injury
Penetrating injuries, such as a stab wound or gunshot wound
Medical procedures, such as open-heart surgery or chest tube insertion
Medical conditions, such as osteoporosis or cancer that has spread to the bones
Symptoms:
Symptoms of a sternal injury may include pain or tenderness in the chest, swelling, bruising, difficulty breathing, and in severe cases, deformity or instability of the chest wall.
Treatment:
Treatment for a sternal injury depends on the severity and underlying cause, and may include pain management, rest, immobilization, physical therapy, or surgery in more severe cases.
If you suspect you have a sternal injury, it is important to seek medical attention right away to determine the cause and appropriate treatment plan.
How does physical therapy treat sternal injury?
Physical therapy can be an effective treatment option for sternal injuries, particularly for those with mild to moderate injuries. The goals of physical therapy for sternal injuries are to reduce pain, restore range of motion and strength, improve breathing, and prevent complications such as pneumonia or blood clots.
Here are some common techniques and exercises that may be used in physical therapy for sternal injuries:
Gentle range-of-motion exercises: These exercises involve slow, controlled movements of the arms and shoulders to gradually increase mobility and prevent stiffness.
Breathing exercises: Deep breathing exercises can help to prevent complications such as pneumonia and improve lung function after a sternal injury.
Strengthening exercises: These exercises help to rebuild strength in the chest and upper body muscles that may have been weakened or damaged by the injury.
Manual therapy: This may include massage or other hands-on techniques to reduce pain, improve circulation, and increase mobility.
Heat and cold therapy: Heat and cold therapy may be used to reduce pain and inflammation in the affected area.
Education and activity modification: Physical therapists can also provide education on proper body mechanics and suggest modifications to daily activities to prevent further injury or strain.
It is important to note that physical therapy for sternal injuries should be tailored to the individual's specific injury and needs, and should be performed under the guidance of a licensed physical therapist.
Self-help before seeking help from a physical therapist?
It is important to seek medical attention if you suspect you have a sternal injury, as the severity of the injury can vary and may require medical intervention. However, once you have received medical treatment and clearance from your healthcare provider, there are some things you can do at home to aid in your recovery:
Rest: Avoid activities that cause pain or discomfort, and allow your body time to heal.
Pain management: Over-the-counter pain medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help to reduce pain and inflammation.
Ice or heat therapy: Applying ice or heat to the affected area can help to reduce pain and swelling. Use ice for the first 48 hours after the injury, and then switch to heat.
Gentle exercises: Your healthcare provider or physical therapist may prescribe gentle range-of-motion exercises to help prevent stiffness and improve mobility.
Proper posture and body mechanics: Maintaining good posture and using proper body mechanics can help to prevent further strain or injury to the chest.
Breathing exercises: Deep breathing exercises can help to improve lung function and prevent complications such as pneumonia.
It is important to follow your healthcare provider's instructions and recommendations for at-home care, and to seek medical attention if you experience any new or worsening symptoms.