Chiropractors/compression fracture

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Expert: - 11/21/2009


Question
I have an identified compression fracture in my upper back, fortunately it is non weight bearing. This injury was diagnosed almost 10 months after the occurrence. What procedures should I expect my chiropractor to perform.


Answer
June,

There is nothing that the chiropractor or any doctor can do to change the compression fracture.   Any pain you have surrounding it is likely caused by pinched or compressed tissues and not from the bone itself.  If you have pain, it may not even be related to the stress fracture.   Quite to the contrary, postural/mechanical stress on your spine may be the cause of any pain you have, and your bone was just the weakest link, collapsing under the pressure.  I would expect the chiropractor to employ any methods possible to reduce your pain, improve the quality of the surrounding spine tissues (muscles, tendons, fascial connective tissues), and improve your daily living activity abilities.   Procedures could include joint manipulation, stretching, massaging, and exercises.   Sometimes modalities such as therapeutic ultrasound bring relief to the tissues.   I am not a big fan of electric stimulation since "e-stim" doesn't fix anything.  You can use ice or heat or both at home, and you should be engaged in exercises for at home.  Not knowing your age or your health status, the above items should be discussed with your chiropractor and tailored to meet your needs.   Lastly, check your vitamin-D status.   If in doubt, you should be taking about 5,000 IU's of D3 daily.  If you never go out in the sun, then 10,000 IU's is the best dose, especially in winter time (see: www.vitamindhealth.org).  

'Hope this was helpful.

Dr. G

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21 Years in practice: I can answer any question regarding chiropractic and sports medicine treatment. Mostly, I can help the unknowing public understand what is safe, valid, reasonable and evidence-based, and what kinds of unscrupulous chiropractors and fraudulent methods to stay away from. I have an advanced specialty degree in Chiropractic Sports Medicine. I have experience treating elite and Olympic athletes.

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