Expert: Dr. Paul Newhart - 2/25/2008

Question
Six weeks ago I suffered two compression fractures in my T-9 and T-11 vertebrae during rowing practice. While looking at my x-rays the orthopedist said that they are very mild and in fact if he was not there to show us the fracture, we would not have been able to see it.  He just told me to take it easy and that he didn't want me to do anything for 3 months.  I decided to wear a brace and began to take Biost and Cal-Ma Plus which were referred to me by a herbalist. Do you think that by bracing and taking these medicines the fractures would heal faster?  Also, I was not in any pain what-so-ever but the past week my back started to feel as if was sore, now could this be from wearing the brace to tightly?

Answer
You may want to hold off on the brace.  Evidence has shown that wearing a brace (usually from rib fractures, but it may apply in your case) can lead to pneumonia.  Your body needs the everyday stress put upon it to rebuild the bone properly.  The supplements area good start; you may want to also add in 15 minutes of sun exposure (bare arms and face) 3 times a week to increase your Vitamin D production