How to treat soft tissue injury of the ribs

The treatment of rib soft tissue injuries should take into account the severity of the condition and the patient's overall health status. Treatment options include: 1. General management: In the initial phase of injury, adequate rest and minimizing movement of the chest and rib area are necessary to prevent further damage. 2. Cold and heat therapy: Apply cold packs within the first 24 hours after injury to reduce swelling and pain; switch to heat application after 48 hours to promote blood circulation and resolve bruising. 3. Medication: Under medical supervision, topical medications such as diclofenac diethylamine gel may be used for pain relief, or blood-circulating and analgesic plasters such as Gutong plaster may be applied. 4. Physical therapy: Treatments such as massage and acupuncture can help relieve muscle tension and promote recovery. 5. Surgical treatment: For severe cases, such as those accompanied by rib fractures, surgical intervention may be required to stabilize the ribs and ensure normal skeletal function. All of the above treatments should be performed under the guidance of a physician to ensure proper and effective management of the injury.