Conversation: The conversation between human and AI assistant.
[|Human|] I have been having pain over my ribs and around to the side since July. Since it had such a burning quality, my Dr. started me on Neurontin. The pain and burning are much better, but now whenever I cough or sneeze, I have to splint my ribs right in front under my breast. Yesterday, I got into a coughing fit and it felt like something was tearing. So now it hurts to take a deep breath, and it feel shredded up in there. Just today I wrapped my ribs with one of those heating pads. The pressure seems to help. What is the treatment for strained intercostal muscles or cracked and bruised ribs?
[|AI|]  Thanks for your question on Chat Doctor. I can understand your situation. In my opinion you should first get done chest x-ray to rule out internal lung damage and rib fracture. If chest x-ray is normal than no need to worry much. You mostly have muscular injury. So try to follow these steps for better symptomatic relief.1. Avoid heavy weight lifting.2. Avoid strenuous exercise.3. Avoid movements causing pain.4. Avoid bad postures in sleep.5. Apply warm water pad on affected site.6. Start painkiller and muscle relaxant.7. Wear chest belt to avoid mobilization of painful site.