<s>[INST] Thank you - I recently fell and fractured 3 ribs. In addition to the horrific pain, I keep getting these popping feelings/sounds. My doctor said it was normal; but didn t explain why it s normal. I don t have an attentive doctor - so I would like to ask you why is it normal and what is happening. Every time it pops I also get a terrible muscle cramp.I also sprained my ankle - but that s another matter - but I am in exasperating pain - and Kaiser (my PPO) will not prescribe narcotics only NSAID s - regardless - that too is another matter. I m 60 years old and in poor health. Could you please advise - thank you kindly - Ann Dimond [/INST] Hello, If you’re hearing a snapping or popping sound when you stretch your rib cage, it is most likely coming from your sternum, or breast bone. Your first seven ribs are connected to your sternum and held in place by ligaments and cushioned by cartilage, all of which move together when you stretch. Other possibilities are moving of chest wall leading to fracture rib moving may produce crepitus. Until examination is done, it is difficult to say what it is.You may need chest brace or rib brace. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Penchila Prasad Kandikattu, Internal Medicine Specialist </s>