A corset for fracture of the ribs is necessary to protect internal organs and to prevent possible displacements. But, like any other medical device, a corset can do more harm if it is picked up and used incorrectly.
What is a corset for?
Bandages are used in medical practice everywhere, especially in departments of traumatology. The definition of a corset is a tight medical bandage. Gypsum is also a corset. The spine suffers greatly after an injury or during high physical exertion. 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 the spine and ribs;
- minimizes chest fluctuations during breathing, which can cause discomfort and even pain;
- creates compression, reliably fixing the chest, which is especially important for patients after surgery.
As you can see, a correctly selected corset facilitates the recovery process after fracture of the ribs. It reduces the risk of pain during movement, breathing, prevents the displacement of bone fragments, and improves posture.
By the way, every third person wore a corset in childhood to correct posture.
Indications for use
Why, despite all the benefits, is a corset after fracture of the ribs not always prescribed for patients? Here is a list of cases that are indications for the appointment of a corset:
- intercostal neuralgia;
- operation;
- cracked ribs during movement;
- the development of myositis and myalgia in the area of damage;
- increased risk of debris displacement;
- the need for the patient to go to work;
- load on the spine and ribs, causing discomfort and pain;
- increased risk of injury during the recovery period.
Is a corset needed for rib fracture? Not always. The only indication for using a corset should be a doctor’s recommendation. If you want to use a corset, then you must first consult your doctor.
What are corsets?
Corsets are usually classified according to the degree of rigidity, material, purpose. Distinguish between female, male, 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 select the ideal size, you need to try on several corsets, because different manufacturers have different dimensional grids. So, corsets for fracture 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 can use cheaper materials, but their product will cost more due to the brand.
Choosing a corset, it is worth considering several aspects:
- Material. Hypoallergenic materials that are pleasant to the touch should be preferred. They will not cause discomfort and irritation on the skin when worn.
- Type of corset. Attention should be paid to the universality of the model or to their strict division into male and female.
- Rigidity. It should be selected for each individual case. Choosing the level of rigidity of the corset during fracture of the ribs, it is necessary to discuss this issue with the doctor.
- Clasps. Usually used hooks and Velcro. The latter are used most often, so you need to pay attention to the quality of the Velcro, which should provide reliable grip for fixing the ribs.
- The 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 healthy 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 the availability of a certificate issued by the Ministry of Health of your country.
How to choose the right corset for broken ribs?
To benefit from the corset, it must be selected for each individual patient. This can only be done with the help of a doctor or consultant. You can choose only a soft bandage on your own, but he can not always cope with the problem. The doctor will determine and tell you what level of stiffness is required precisely for your injuries.
After selecting the stiffness and model, the product is tried on, followed by fitting to the client's parameters. After adjusting the corset, the changes are saved. Please note that your abilities are already limited due to injury, and the help of a specialist who will delve into all the nuances will help you choose a product and tailor it to your parameters, taking into account the anatomical details, will be irreplaceable for you.
Contraindications
In some cases, a corset for fracture of the ribs is not only not shown, but also contraindicated. Doctors still have not come to a consensus on the use of fixing braces in the treatment of rib injuries. Some experts oppose tight bandaging, others believe that the restriction of movement should be temporary, while others allow not to remove the corset for several hours, or even from morning to evening. Despite this, it is important to consider that:
Constant, prolonged wearing interferes with the normal functioning of the lungs. Incomplete opening of the lungs can contribute to the development of congestive processes and post-traumatic pneumonia.
Strong pressure can provoke the displacement of bone fragments to internal organs, which can cause damage.
The corset removes the load from the muscles and spine, as a result of which their tone decreases.
Some materials can cause diaper rash and allergies, which will interfere with the healing of sutures after surgery.
If there are problems with the cardiovascular system, wearing compression bandages is not recommended.
How to use a corset?
The fracture of the ribs grows together, as a rule, 1-2 months. In the first days, you need to immobilize the chest as much as possible, but as the bones grow together, it is necessary to reduce the time of wear and allow the body to get used to the load. It is also important to prevent the development of congestive 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 feel pain, discomfort while wearing a corset, you have difficulty breathing, remove it immediately. The corset should help you and ease your condition during the recovery period, and not interfere.