Which statement is true regarding broken ribs?

The correct statement regarding broken ribs is that they can be managed conservatively with rest and ice. When someone suffers from a rib fracture, the general course of treatment focuses on pain management and allowing the body to heal naturally. Rest is crucial because it reduces the movement of the ribs, allowing the fractures time to mend properly. Ice can be applied to alleviate pain and swelling in the initial stages after the injury.

Surgical intervention is typically reserved for cases where the fractures cause complications, such as significant displacement or damage to internal organs. While broken ribs can lead to complications, such as lung issues, they do not inevitably necessitate immediate surgery in most situations. It's also important to note that broken ribs are known to cause significant pain, contrary to the statement that they do not typically cause pain.