David J. Muñoz | May 11, 2026 | Personal Injury

A fractured sternum, commonly referred to as a broken breastbone, is a painful injury that often occurs after a traumatic impact to the chest. The sternum is the flat bone located in the center of the chest, connecting the ribs and helping protect vital organs such as the heart and lungs. Any injury to the sternum should be taken seriously.

Sternal fractures are most commonly associated with car accidents, sports injuries, falls, and blunt force trauma. While some fractures may heal with rest and pain management, others can lead to serious complications involving the lungs, heart, or surrounding bones. Understanding the symptoms of a fractured sternum can help injured individuals seek prompt medical care and avoid worsening the injury.

Chest Pain

A common symptom of a fractured sternum is severe chest pain. The pain is usually located in the center of the chest and may worsen with movement, coughing, sneezing, or deep breathing. Many people describe the pain as sharp, stabbing, or persistent.

Unlike minor bruising or muscle soreness, the discomfort from a fractured sternum often intensifies with even simple activities such as reaching, twisting, or getting out of bed. Some individuals experience pain that radiates into the shoulders or upper back.

Pain may become especially noticeable when pressure is applied to the chest area. Since the sternum moves slightly during breathing, injured individuals often struggle to take full breaths comfortably.

Swelling and Bruising Around the Chest

Another common symptom of a fractured sternum is visible swelling or bruising over the breastbone. After trauma, inflammation can develop around the injury site, causing tenderness and discoloration.

Bruising may appear immediately or develop over several hours following the injury. In some cases, the chest may appear visibly swollen or deformed. Significant bruising after a car accident may also indicate seatbelt trauma, which can accompany internal injuries.

Any visible chest deformity should be evaluated by a medical professional right away because it could signal a displaced fracture or additional complications.

Difficulty Breathing

Shortness of breath or painful breathing is another warning sign of a fractured sternum. Since the chest expands and contracts during respiration, even minor movement of the broken bone can trigger intense pain.

Some people instinctively take shallow breaths to avoid discomfort, but this can increase the risk of complications such as pneumonia. Difficulty breathing may also suggest associated injuries involving the lungs or ribs.

If breathing becomes severely impaired or is accompanied by dizziness, blue lips, or confusion, emergency medical attention is necessary. These symptoms may indicate serious internal injuries requiring immediate treatment.

Popping or Grinding Sensations

Certain individuals with a fractured sternum report hearing or feeling a popping, clicking, or grinding sensation in the chest. This can happen when the broken pieces of bone shift during movement.

This symptom is often especially noticeable when coughing, twisting, or changing positions. Grinding sensations should never be ignored because they may indicate bone instability or displacement.

A physician may order imaging tests such as X-rays or CT scans to determine the severity of the fracture and evaluate whether surgical intervention is necessary.

Tenderness and Limited Movement

People with a fractured sternum frequently experience tenderness when touching the center of the chest. Even light pressure can produce significant pain.

Chest movement becomes painful, so individuals may also notice reduced mobility in the upper body. Activities such as lifting objects, driving, or reaching overhead can become difficult.

Some patients also experience muscle spasms or stiffness around the chest and upper torso as the body attempts to protect the injured area.

Contact the San Diego Personal Injury Lawyers at Mission Personal Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation

A fractured sternum can lead to extensive medical bills, missed work, and significant physical pain. When the injury results from another party’s negligence, such as a reckless driver or unsafe property condition, injured victims may have legal options available to pursue compensation.

If you’ve been injured in San Diego or Chula Vista, please call Mission Personal Injury Lawyers for a free case evaluation with a personal injury lawyer or contact us online.

We proudly serve San Diego County and throughout California.

Mission Personal Injury Lawyers – San Diego Office
3666 Fourth Ave, San Diego, CA 92103
(619) 777-5555

Mission Personal Injury Lawyers – Chula Vista Office
690 Otay Lakes Rd #130, Chula Vista, CA 91910
(619) 722-3032

We also serve the state of Texas. For legal assistance, contact our personal injury law office in El Paso today.
Mission Personal Injury Lawyers – El Paso Office
201 E Main Suite 106, El Paso, Texas 79901
(915) 591-1000