A first-rib fracture from playing baseball can occur when a batter is struck in the rib by a pitch. Doctors refer to this as a “traumatic” bone fracture or break caused by a single event. That’s not the only way a baseball player can suffer a first-rib fracture. A stress fracture of the first rib is also possible in baseball and can develop into a full fracture over time. Pitchers are more at risk of stress fractures of the first rib than other players.
Location
Twelve ribs are on the right side of the body and 12 on the left. The first rib is at the top of the rib cage and is thinner and weaker than other ribs because the other ribs contain grooves for blood vessels leading to the arm, according to SportsMD. A stress fracture in the first rib results in tiny cracks in the rib. Over time, the condition can develop into a full break or fracture because of continued stress on the bone. The bone weakens with continued activity, allowing a full fracture to develop.
Case Study
Pitchers in baseball can throw with an overhand or sidearm motion. The "Journal of Sports Science and Medicine" reported about one 14-year-old pitcher who heard a snap from his right shoulder during a sidearm-style pitch. Six months earlier the pitcher had used an overhand style but eventually began experiencing discomfort in the right shoulder as he pitched side-armed. Doctors eventually diagnosed his injury as a stress fracture of the first rib. They suspected that his new sidearm pitching style caused the stress fracture. After six weeks of rest, the player resumed playing with an overhand pitching style.
Indications
Gradual onset of pain in the side of the neck, upper back or back of the shoulder is a possible indication of a first-rib stress fracture. A baseball player struck in the first rib by a pitch at a high speed likely would experience acute pain immediately. Pain from a stress fracture could come and go for months, according to SportsMD. In some rare situations the player may feel a sudden snap or pop when the stress fracture becomes a full fracture.
Treatment
First-rib fractures need time to heal -- this is usually the first recommendation by a doctor. Surgery is an option, however. Full participation in baseball is usually possible within 8 to 12 weeks, although some players may return sooner. A full fracture could require the player to sit out for up to a year. Before recommending treatment, doctors will conduct a thorough exam of the upper body to rule out other causes of pain. A first-rib stress fracture may cause tenderness at the base of the neck behind the collarbone.
Causes
SportsMD reports that rib stress fractures are not common but can occur in sports requiring vigorous shoulder motions such as baseball. Of all the players on a baseball team, pitchers have the most frequent and repetitive shoulder motions during a game. Baseball pitchers can avoid first-rib stress fractures by learning proper throwing motions.
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