[header] How to treat bruised ribs [title] Seek immediate medical attention if you have shortness of breath or chest pain. [step] A rib that's bruised or cracked is damaged, but still in its place in the rib cage. A broken rib, however, is dangerous because it's been dislodged from its normal position, and could potentially puncture a blood vessel, lung, or another organ.
Seek medical attention instead of attempting to treat yourself at home if you suspect your ribs are broken instead of bruised. [substeps] Lightly run your hands over your ribcage.