Seung-Joon Lee1, Kilsoo Yie, Sung Bin Chon. 1. Emergency Medicine and Respiratory Center of Kangwon National University Hospital and School of Medicine, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, South Korea.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: First rib fractures are very rare, being primarily associated with external blunt trauma. Related conditions, such as sudden contraction of the neck muscle, stress fractures, and fatigue fractures, have been reported sporadically. These fractures are mostly related to repetitive or explosive physical training. However, anatomical relationships and related injury mechanisms may cause first rib fractures without repetitive sports activity. OBJECTIVE: To present a case of juvenile first rib fracture caused by morning stretching without sports activity. CASE REPORT: We present a rare case report of juvenile atraumatic first rib fracture. CONCLUSION: Physicians should be aware that even morning stretching with yawning can cause a first rib fracture in children. Awareness is important for early recognition, and proper management is critical for a pain-free return to normal life. An understanding of the mechanism of atraumatic first rib fracture is important.
BACKGROUND: First rib fractures are very rare, being primarily associated with external blunt trauma. Related conditions, such as sudden contraction of the neck muscle, stress fractures, and fatigue fractures, have been reported sporadically. These fractures are mostly related to repetitive or explosive physical training. However, anatomical relationships and related injury mechanisms may cause first rib fractures without repetitive sports activity. OBJECTIVE: To present a case of juvenile first rib fracture caused by morning stretching without sports activity. CASE REPORT: We present a rare case report of juvenile atraumatic first rib fracture. CONCLUSION: Physicians should be aware that even morning stretching with yawning can cause a first rib fracture in children. Awareness is important for early recognition, and proper management is critical for a pain-free return to normal life. An understanding of the mechanism of atraumatic first rib fracture is important.