How a sneeze can fracture a rib

We act like we are apex predators, but a slightly aggressive bodily reflex can literally shatter our core structure. When you sneeze violently, the massive, sudden contraction of your diaphragm and intercostal muscles puts an immense stress load on your ribcage. If the force is severe enough—or your bones are just having a weak day—it can actually snap a rib. Your own immune response literally assaults your skeleton.