S23: Dislocation, sprain and strain of joints and ligaments of thorax
S23.5: Sprain and strain of other and unspecified parts of thorax
Joints connect the ribs to the spine at the back and the sternum at the front. The sternum is a flat bone at the front in the center. In getting injured, you have strained rib joints or overstretched rib ligaments.
This happens, for example, with sudden violent movements, as in an accident. The injury can make breathing painful, for example. It may also be that you are not able to move properly because your back hurts.
Patient Disclaimer
The information provided on this page is for general educational purposes only. It is not intended for self-diagnosis and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions or concerns about your health.
If you see an ICD diagnosis code (e.g., on a medical report), be aware that doctors may also include additional indicators to express diagnostic certainty. Only a healthcare professional can interpret these codes accurately in the context of your individual case.
For a complete understanding of your condition and what the diagnosis means for you, please speak directly with your doctor.