I was hit hard in the chest with soccer ball, a day later it is still (a 6 on a 1 to 10 scale) uncomfortable moving or when breathing deeper.....can I wait to see if it goes away or do I need a chest x-ray before playing soccer again?  I play competitive soccer almost daily.
A chest X-ray must be done to rule out any rib fracture if there was such a strong pain 6 on 10 score. If the pain is debilitating, over the counter painkillers can be taken. And, if there is any rib fracture, it must be put to rest before starting playing soccer again.