A corset in case of fracture of the ribs is necessary to protect the internal organs and to prevent possible displacements. But, like any other medical device, a corset can cause more damage if it is not properly fitted and used.
What is a corset for?
Bandages are used everywhere in medical practice, especially in traumatology departments. The definition of a corset is a rigid therapeutic bandage. Gypsum is also a corset. The spine after an injury or during high physical exertion suffers greatly. To prevent injury, put on, for example, a lumbar brace or belt that holds the spine in one position. In addition, the corset has many useful qualities:
- relieves stress from spine and ribs;
- minimizes chest swings when breathing, which can cause discomfort and even pain;
- creates compression to securely fix the chest, which is especially important for patients after surgery.
As you can see, the right corset facilitates the processrecovery after rib fracture. It reduces the risk of pain during movement, breathing, prevents the displacement of bone fragments, improves posture.
By the way, every third person wore a corset to correct posture as a child.
Indications for use
Why, despite all the benefits, a corset after rib fractures is not always prescribed to patients? Here is a list of cases that are indications for the appointment of a corset:
- intercostal neuralgia;
- operation;
- cracks in the ribs during movement;
- development of myositis and myalgia in the area of damage;
- increased risk of debris displacement;
- needing the patient to go to work;
- load on the spine and ribs, causing discomfort and pain;
- Increased risk of injury during the recovery period.
Do I need a corset for a broken rib? Not always. The only indication for the use of a corset should be a doctor's recommendation. If you want to use a corset, you should definitely consult your doctor before doing so.
What are corsets?
Corsets are usually classified according to the degree of rigidity, material, purpose. There are women's, men's, children's and universal models. In addition, the division of corsets by size is taken into account, since different people of the same height and weight may have different chest sizes. To find the perfect size, you need to try on several corsets, as differentmanufacturers have different sizes. So, corsets for broken ribs, photos of which can be seen in the article, are completely different.
It is generally accepted that the more expensive the product, the better it is. However, in the realities of the modern world, this is not always the case. More famous manufacturers may use cheaper materials, but their product will cost more due to the brand.
When choosing a corset, it is worth considering several aspects:
- Material. You need to give preference to hypoallergenic materials that are pleasant to the touch. They will not cause discomfort or irritation to the skin when worn.
- Corset type. You should pay attention to the versatility of the model or to their strict division into male and female.
- Rigidity. It is worth choosing for each individual case. When choosing the level of corset stiffness for rib fractures, it is necessary to discuss this issue with your doctor.
- Clasps. Hooks and Velcro are commonly used. The latter are used most often, so you need to pay attention to the quality of the Velcro, which should provide a secure grip to fix the ribs.
- Size. The manufacturer indicates the size grid on the package, and the main indicator is the volume of the chest. Please note that the difference in volume between inhalation and exhalation with he althy chest mobility in men is from 6 to 12 cm, in women from 4 to 9 cm.
- Manufacturer and quality certificate. It is better to give preference to trusted manufacturers who need to check for a certificate,issued by your country's Ministry of He alth.
How to choose the right corset for broken ribs?
In order for the corset to be useful, it must be selected for each individual patient. This can only be done with the help of a doctor or consultant. You can pick up only a soft bandage on your own, but it can not always cope with the problem. The doctor will determine and tell you what level of rigidity is required specifically for your injuries.
After choosing the stiffness and model, the product is tried on with subsequent adjustment to the client's parameters. After adjusting the corset, the changes are saved. Keep in mind that your abilities are already limited due to injury, and the help of a specialist who will delve into all the nuances, help you choose a product and fit it to your parameters, taking into account anatomical details, will be indispensable for you.
Contraindications
In some cases, a corset for broken ribs is not only not indicated, but also contraindicated. Doctors have not yet come to a consensus on the use of fixing bandages in the treatment of rib injuries. Some experts oppose tight bandaging, others believe that the restriction of movement should be temporary, and others allow the corset not to be removed for several hours, or even from morning to evening. Despite this, it is important to consider that:
- Constant, prolonged wear interferes with normal lung function. Incomplete expansion of the lungs can contribute to the development of congestive processes andpost-traumatic pneumonia.
- Strong pressure can cause bone fragments to move towards the internal organs, which can cause damage.
- The corset takes the load off the muscles and spine, as a result of which their tone decreases.
- Some materials can cause diaper rash and allergies, which will prevent stitches from healing after surgery.
- If you have problems with the cardiovascular system, wearing compression bandages is not recommended.
How to use a corset correctly?
Fracture of the ribs grows together, as a rule, 1-2 months. In the early days, you need to immobilize the chest as much as possible, but as the bones grow together, it is necessary to reduce the wearing time and let the body get used to the load. It is also important to prevent the development of stagnant processes in the lungs, and for this you need to periodically remove the corset and do breathing exercises. If the bandage is stretched or, conversely, has become too tight, then you should not wear it and you need to replace it.
If you experience pain, discomfort, or difficulty breathing while wearing a corset, remove it immediately. The corset should help you and ease your condition during the recovery period, and not interfere.
