What is a cracked rib treatment?

Cracked, fractured or broken ribs do not require surgery. Instead, cracked ribs are treated at home with pain medication, rest, deep breathing and ice, says WebMD. Most cracked ribs heal on their own after about six weeks, explains Mayo Clinic.

While recovering from a cracked rib, the patient should take the deepest breath he possibly can at least once an hour, explains WebMD. Coughing is also acceptable. These actions prevent lung collapse and pneumonia.

Mayo Clinic explains that if a person isn't able to perform these breathing exercises, he can receive local anesthesia injections around the ribs to facilitate easier breathing. Cracked, fractured or broken ribs should not be compressed under tight bandages, as the pressure prevents deep breathing and increases the risk of complications, explains Mayo Clinic.