A chest wall injury refers to damage to the structures surrounding the chest cavity, including the ribs, muscles, and skin. Common causes include trauma from accidents, falls, or sports injuries. Symptoms often include pain, swelling, and difficulty breathing, depending on the severity of the injury. Treatment for a chest wall injury typically involves rest, pain management, and sometimes physical therapy. In more severe cases, such as fractures or punctured lungs, medical intervention may be necessary. It's important to monitor for complications, such as pneumothorax, which can occur if air leaks into the chest cavity.