Compression Fractures

Hi - I am a 26 y/o female with several back/spine issues.  In 2001 I was in a MVA and had compression fractures from C-6 to T-3, but did not choose surgery to treat these.  After healing, I still have chronic pain in this area.  Also, in Feb. 2006 I had a laminectomy to resect an AVM located within my spinal cord at about the T-12 area.  I became disabled after this surgery and lost sensation in my right leg, though I can walk.  After becoming disabled, I have no medical insurance and put off going to the doctor lately despite having new, worsening pain and neuropathy in both of my legs (cramping, weakness, pain).  I have finally decided to go, and my x-rays showed that I have a new compression fracture at T-4.  I am unclear as to what could cause a compression fracture.  Bone scans from 2 years ago were normal.  Can you tell me what the culprit could be?  Also, I have a back brace from 2001, will that offer some relief from the pain?  I have heard that they can fill the fractured vertebrae, but is this treatment also an option for the old fractures?  Kyphosis is very apparent in the imaging, and, as you can imagine, I do NOT want to resemble the hunchback of Notre Dame before I am 30!

I appreciate any light you can shed on the subject.  Thanks!~

[Adam Tanase, D.C.]

You're probably going to need to address this question to a spinal surgeon. I'm afraid that the treatment of spinal fractures is beyond my area of expertise.

Warm wishes,
AT

[BackOut]

Thanks for taking the time to answer.