What could happen if I get hit in the sternum?

National Athletic Trainers' Association

A direct blow to the sternum may result in a heart contusion. This occurs when the heart is compressed between the sternum and the spine, causing an injury to the right ventricle or even a rupture to the aorta. This injury needs to be referred to the emergency room immediately. (This answer provided for NATA by the University of Montana Athletic Training Education Program.)

Continue Learning about Injuries, Wound and Trauma

Headache, Clammy Skin, and Other Dangerous Signs You’re Overheating

When a hurricane devastates a tropical island, a wildfire whips through a mountainside region, or a superstorm rocks an oceanfront city, most news cha...

How to prevent falls: the top cause of deadly injury among older people

For American adults older than age 65, a fall could be life-threatening—and the rate of deaths from falls in this age group is on the rise, according ...

What is a puncture wound? Punctures usually occur when a pointed object, such as a nail, pierces the...

How do I know if my wound is infected? If your wound is infected, you may have high or low body temp...

Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Injuries, Wound and Trauma

The normal course of daily living ensures that at some point we will injure ourselves. The body is great at healing minor injuries, and first-aid basics will help keep injuries from becoming serious or infected. As we move up to more serious injuries, again knowing what to do first is important, even if follow-up care must be done by a medic or hospital emergency room. It's always better to prevent injury if you can. Pay attention to hazards that can cause falls. In the kitchen use cutting blocks and sharp knives - they are safer because you use less pressure while cutting.

Learn More

Features:

Condition Headquarters:

What could happen if I get hit in the sternum?

Continue Learning about Injuries, Wound and Trauma