Expert: Dr. Brendon J. O`Brien, D.C. - 2/2/2006

Question
Dr. O 'Brien

I had surgery a year ago and had a rod put into the tibia of my left leg.  I have fibrous dysplasia which hollowed out the tibia.  I am in chronic pain and the surgeon said all I could do was take vitamins.  I have been taking glyconutients(http://www.mannapages.com/sweetparadise), which seems to help with the swelling but have some days when the pain is more pronouned.  I am wondering about acupunture and if it would be a good idea to try.  Is there a risk of getting an infection in the bone?

I appreciate learning anything about alternative therapies.

Jeff

Answer
Hello Jeffery,

    Acupuncture works great for pain.  You may want to try 2-3 treatments and see how much it helps.  Risk of infection is extremely rare due to the sanitized needles.  Needles are used once and thown away.  Alcohol swabs are used to clean the insertion/acupuncture points before the needle is inserted.

Have a great day,
Dr. Brendon O'Brien D.C.