Question
My boyfriend and I were hit by a drunk driver in early July 2007. I was hospitalized with a fractured scapula, fractured ribs, lung contusions.. etc. A few months ago I had an MRI on cervical, thoracic, and lumbar areas that showed no problems, however, about a month ago I started feeling a new pain in my back that I am positive is a disc injury. It hurts immensely on my spine to both bend forward and backwards or when anyone goes near it with any kind of pressure. It is located in the lower area of the middle of my back. Is it possible for an MRI to be in-conclusive of that area? Could a disc injury have developed from the other injuries I received in that accident? I am so frustrated because people aren't taking me seriously since the MRI results showed nothing a few months ago. I would really appreciate some suggestions.

Answer
Hi Chesea,

Many things like facet damage causing a facet syndrome will not be evident on MRI, I would see a Chiropractor for a thorough work-up to rule out other possible issue that don't show up on MRI. A headache is certainly real and won't show up on any test, same with many conditions, only a trained professional like a DC in spine issues is qualified to properly evaluate him. If it is what I suspect, facet syndrome, it is easily treated with Chiropractic manipulation and electrical stim, so don't worry too much!

Good Luck!

Dr. Timothy Durnin