Question
Dr.,
I was in a car accident about 15 years ago. (head on collision)  After the accident my upper thoracic back was in severe pain and became numb.  All x-rays and MRI's were negative.  The pain has stabilized.  I have chronic back pain in my vertebra T-2-T6.  Pressure and pain always builds up in my paraspinal muscles and  my upper back joints crack when I breath or move all day long.  I was told it was  myofascial pain syndrome which causes trigger points.  I was also told that this was due to abnormal sleep to reduce the pain.  When I touch my vertebra it feels like a knife is poking me.  Constant chronic pain and cracking is all I go through all day.  MRI shows that my cervical neck was straightened.  I do feel better temporary when I go to a massage therapist or a chiropractor.  Please if you could please explain what is causing this and what can I do to help it. My back cracks more now than ever and it worries me because im 28 years old.
Thank you so much.

Answer
Hi George,

When you sustained the trauma, ligaments were damaged creating instability. Manipulations only offer temporary relief because the supporting structures (ligaments and tendons) are stretched and need additional secondary support. This is accomplished with follow-up core strengthening. I would see a kinesiologist or PT for a rigorous kinetic exercise regime to stabilize the adjustments from the Chiropractor. Often DC's have this equipment and you might not need to seek another professional. Either way, this issue must be addressed, the sooner the better. Also, sleeping on the floor a couple days may help the pain in the morning and offer homogeneous support, if you feel better after doing so, get a new mattress since it is probably attributing to the cause.


Good Luck,

Dr. Timothy Durnin