Expert: Dr. Man Tran, Ph.D., D.C., L.Ac. - 9/10/2009

Question
I saw my Chiropractor today - due to chronic back pain over the last 10 years - and he informed me that I have several healed compresion fractures that I was unaware of - Can this be the cause of my continued back pain? Is there any treatment? and Should I bring this up to my Familoy Doctor? I have X-Rays should I forward this to my family doctor as well?

Answer
Dear Jeff,

Yes, the history of compression fractures can contribute to your chronic back pain.  Best treatment would be exercise to strengthen the back and stomach muscle to give stability to the spine.  Also distraction therapy (ask your chiropractor about it) can also alleviate the pain.  

As for the x-rays, it is always good to keep all the doctors involved in your management to be aware of any testings.  Just make sure they address the issue on your followed up visit and not have a discussion about the x-rays.