The Parrish Car Accident & Personal Injury Law Firm | July 6, 2026 | Personal Injury
A fractured sternum, also known as a broken breastbone, is a painful injury that most often occurs after a significant impact to the chest. Car accidents are one of the leading causes, particularly when the chest strikes a seat belt or steering wheel during a collision. However, falls, sports injuries, and other traumatic accidents can also result in a fractured sternum.
While some sternal fractures heal with conservative treatment, others may be accompanied by serious injuries to the heart, lungs, ribs, or spine. Recognizing the symptoms of a fractured sternum and seeking prompt medical attention can help prevent complications and ensure you receive appropriate care.
Chest Pain
The most common symptom of a fractured sternum is severe pain in the center of the chest.
The pain often:
- Begins immediately after the injury
- Feels sharp or stabbing
- Worsens when moving
- Intensifies during deep breathing
- Becomes more severe when coughing or sneezing
- May continue even while resting
Many people mistake this pain for a bruised chest. However, pain from a fractured sternum is typically much more intense and persistent.
Tenderness Over the Breastbone
A person with a fractured sternum usually experiences significant tenderness directly over the injured area.
You may notice:
- Pain when touching the center of your chest
- Sensitivity even to light pressure
- Difficulty wearing a seat belt or tight clothing
- Pain when lying on your stomach
Tenderness is often localized directly over the fracture site.
Swelling and Bruising
Trauma that causes a fractured sternum frequently damages nearby soft tissues as well.
Visible symptoms may include:
- Swelling over the breastbone
- Bruising across the chest
- Redness around the injury
- Discoloration from seat belt injuries after a car accident
Swelling can increase during the first 24 to 48 hours following the injury.
Pain When Breathing
Fractures often make every breath painful as the sternum moves slightly during normal breathing.
Individuals may experience:
- Pain while inhaling deeply
- Difficulty taking full breaths
- Shallow breathing to avoid discomfort
- Increased pain during coughing
Although shallow breathing may temporarily reduce discomfort, it can increase the risk of respiratory complications if it continues for an extended period.
Clicking or Grinding Sensation
Some people notice unusual sensations when moving their upper body.
These may include:
- Clicking
- Grinding
- Popping sensations
- Movement around the fracture site
These symptoms may indicate movement of the fractured bone and should be evaluated by a medical professional promptly.
Difficulty Moving the Upper Body
Many everyday movements involve muscles attached to the sternum.
A fractured sternum can make it painful to:
- Raise your arms
- Twist your torso
- Push yourself out of bed
- Lift objects
- Reach overhead
- Drive a vehicle
The pain often limits normal activities until healing progresses.
Muscle Spasms
Chest muscles may tighten in response to the injury.
Muscle spasms can:
- Increase chest pain
- Make movement more difficult
- Occur unexpectedly
- Continue during the healing process
These spasms are a common response to trauma, but should still be discussed with your healthcare provider.
Difficulty Sleeping
Many patients struggle to sleep comfortably after a fractured sternum.
Sleeping may become difficult because:
- Rolling over causes pain
- Lying flat increases discomfort
- Certain sleeping positions place pressure on the chest
- Deep breathing during sleep may trigger pain
Some individuals find temporary relief by sleeping in a reclined position.
Shortness of Breath
Shortness of breath should never be ignored after a chest injury.
While pain alone can make breathing feel difficult, shortness of breath may also indicate additional injuries involving the lungs or heart.
If breathing becomes increasingly difficult, seek emergency medical care immediately.
Contact the Manassas Personal Injury Lawyers at The Parrish Car Accident & Personal Injury Law Firm for a Free Consultation
A fractured sternum is more than just a painful chest injury; it may also signal more serious trauma requiring immediate medical attention. Recognizing symptoms such as severe chest pain, tenderness, difficulty breathing, swelling, and limited movement can help you seek treatment as quickly as possible and reduce the risk of complications.
If your fractured sternum resulted from someone else’s negligence, such as a car accident or other preventable incident, The Parrish Car Accident & Personal Injury Law Firm can help you understand your legal rights. Contact us today for a free consultation with a Manassas personal injury lawyer. We have two convenient locations in Manassas and Fairfax, Virginia.
The Parrish Car Accident & Personal Injury Law Firm Manassas
9208 Lee Ave, First Floor, Manassas, VA, 20110
(571) 229-1800
Open 24/7
Our firm is located near you. We have an office in Manassas
Find us with our GeoCoordinates: 38.7523907,-77.5566859
The Parrish Car Accident & Personal Injury Law Firm Fairfax
4000 Legato Rd #1100, Fairfax, VA, 22033
(571) 200-5424
Open 24/7
Our firm is located near you. We have an office in Fairfax
Find us with our GeoCoordinates: 38.8657713,-77.3652474
