Sternal Injuries

Sternal Injury: Understanding the Impact and How Physiotherapy Can Aid Recovery 

A sternal injury involves damage to the sternum, also known as the breastbone, which is the flat bone located at the centre of your chest. Sternal injuries are often the result of trauma, such as a car accident (where the chest strikes the steering wheel), falls, or blunt force impacts during contact sports. These injuries can range from mild bruising to more severe fractures, and while they may not be as common as other bone fractures, they can significantly affect breathing, chest mobility, and daily activities. 

Types of Sternal Injuries 

Sternal injuries can vary in severity: 

• Sternal Contusion: A bruised sternum caused by direct impact. While painful, it usually heals without long-term issues. 

• Sternal Fracture: A break in the sternum, often due to high-impact trauma. These fractures may be associated with other injuries like rib fractures or internal organ damage. 

• Sternal Dislocation: In rare cases, the joints between the sternum and the ribs may become dislocated, leading to instability and pain. 

Symptoms of a Sternal Injury 

Sternal injuries are typically accompanied by chest pain, especially when breathing deeply, coughing, or moving the arms. Swelling and bruising may be visible over the sternum, and in more severe cases, breathing difficulties can occur. It’s important to seek medical evaluation after trauma to the chest to rule out complications like heart or lung injuries. 

How Physiotherapy Can Help 

Recovery from a sternal injury can be slow, especially if it involves a fracture. Once the initial phase of healing has begun, physiotherapy plays an essential role in helping to restore function, reduce pain, and prevent complications. 

1. Pain Management and Breathing Exercises 

Following a sternal injury, breathing can become shallow due to the pain associated with deep breaths. A physiotherapist will teach you specific breathing exercises to maintain lung function and prevent conditions like pneumonia. Pain management strategies such as gentle stretching, ice therapy, and posture correction will also be used to reduce discomfort. 

2. Restoring Chest Mobility 

The chest can become stiff after a sternal injury, particularly if there was a period of immobilisation. Physiotherapy will focus on improving chest wall mobility through exercises that target the muscles surrounding the sternum, ribs, and shoulders. Gentle stretching and mobilisation techniques help to gradually restore normal movement. 

3. Improving Posture and Strength 

A sternal injury can lead to poor posture, as people often hunch to protect the injured area. A physiotherapist will guide you in postural correction exercises, strengthening the muscles of the back and shoulders to support better alignment. This helps in preventing long-term postural issues and promoting healing. 

4. Progressive Return to Activity 

As the injury heals, a physiotherapist will help you safely return to your normal activities. This will involve gradual, supervised exercises designed to strengthen the chest, back, and core muscles without placing too much stress on the healing sternum. 

Conclusion 

While sternal injuries can be painful and restrictive, physiotherapy plays a vital role in recovery. From managing pain and breathing difficulties to restoring mobility and strength, working with a physiotherapist will help you heal effectively and regain your normal function, reducing the risk of long-term complications.