Question
9 weeks ago I fell from a horse at high speed and suffered a wedge compression fracture to L1.  Have been treated in a brace that i have now weaned myself off. I still have constant pain whilst sitting in one position and if i stand around for too long the top of my right thigh becomes painful and tingly.  Is this likely to resolve with time? I have to sit in hearings all day at work and have said i'll return in 3 weeks from now but i don't know whether i could do this and don't want to let them down...

Answer
It will improve with time, depending on what is causing the pain, and time could mean 2 months or 20 years.  With what you are describing, I believe you have some muscle related problems along with the fracture.  I suggest seeking some gentle chiropractic treatment.  I know that sounds odd, but I am a member of a chiropractic group that uses wedges to assist the body back into alignment.  It is easier to show you in person than try to explain it.  You can go to the website at www.sorsi.com to read about it a little more and to locate a doctor near you.  I don't suggest all chiropractic because not all chiropractic is the same.  If you have any other questions or concerns please email me, I am in St. Paul, Minnesota and would be more than happy to see you in my office.

Dr. Starbuck