A broken rib cannot be splinted therefore it must be left to heal naturally. But Pain management is crucial. Taking pain killers and wearing a rib support wrap can help with the pain. Another important aspect of successfully treating a rib injury is to make sure to breathe deeply so that the lungs fully expand. Failure to do so increases the risk of infection or pneumonia. If the Rib injury is very severe a rib surgery in a medical fascility is the only option.