Suggest treatment for chest pain after gardening
Patient: I have been gardening and while pulling some stubborn weeds I could hear a dull crack in my chest, just above my stomach. I stood up and taking a deep breath, it was very painful. Now I can not bend down to pick up anything of the floor. Have I fractured my sternum? I am 77 years old and have osteoporosis. Erica Lind Doctor: You are having osteoporosis and age 77 yrs.While pulling heavily you might have fractured one of your ribs.Though sternum might not have fractured but there are chances of rib fracture.You can get an Xray done to confirm it.Minor crack will get healed in 4 to 5 weeks.But you need to take rest and avoid heavy work till pain reduces.