Rib Stress Fracture
Cracked Rib from Overuse
Stress fracture of a rib from repetitive loading: distinct from acute traumatic rib fracture. Common in rowers (ribs 4-8, anterolateral: serratus anterior pull), overhead athletes (first rib: scalene/serratus pull), and endurance athletes (cough-related, ribs 6-9). Insidious onset, gradual worsening.
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