What causes pain in the chest when sneezed after injury?
Patient: Hi, I was elbowed on my right upper chest about a week ago in a basketball game and my right chest hurts when I sneezed or coughed. The pain is concentrated on that upper region of the chest, just at the point where one can start feeling the rib bones with his fingers. Slight pain can also be felt when rubbing in between the rib bones. The pain has been there until today (12/29/11) and I am wondering whether I should go and get an X-ray to check for cracked rib(s) or don't go get an X-ray as it may be internal bruising? Doctor: Hai, u hav got a blunt trauma to ur chest with out external injury injuriesInjuries to the chest  especially the ribs are very painful dueto rich innervation of the nerves.U cam go ahead for a chestxry ap (anteroposterior view) to rule out any bony injuriesTake good painkillers like acelofenac or tramadol added with antacids at least for aweek.These pains take at least 2 to3 weeks to subside.Follow deep breathing exercises with chest physiotherapy to prevent atelactasis.Local application of pain gel forms will be of good help.Take care .good luck