Expert: Dr. Paul Newhart - 2/2/2008

Question
Three weeks ago I fell while lifting weights and suffered compression fractures in my T-9 and T-11. I saw a orthopedist this past Monday and he said that I could not row for another 10 weeks.  My fractures are very mild, if the orthopedist did not show me them on the x-ray I would have been able to tell that they were fractured. He also said that I do not need to brace it. The rowing season starts in 5 weeks, and I am wondering if I were to brace it would it promote healing and do you think that I could start rowing lightly in 5 weeks?

Answer
I would follow the ortho's directions to a tee....even though they are mild, they are still fractured.  Bracing is frowned upon; recent research shows that bracing and taping can lead to pneumonia.  Take a good calcium supplement, eat lots of the dark green leafy veg's, and get some sunshine for the vit. D (15 minutes on bare arms is ideal).