Question
My girlfriend (29 years old) had a car accident 7 days ago resulting in the L3 fractured in many pieces and because of that the spinal cord was not damaged (neither the neck), just put a little pressure on it. The Doctors put her screws and a bone graft to stabilize the L3, she's walking in 2 days after the surgery with a little fear. She抯 starting with the physiotherapy in 1 week, do you know if she could have any sequel because that injury?, what should she avoid? And what could you recommend us to do for an optimum recovery?

Thank you very much!!
Regards,
Efrain C.


Answer
Like most injuries to the body, a fractured vertebrae can have an adverse effects over time.  The best way to avoid future problems is to strengthen the area that was damaged.  

I typically recommend slow stretching exercises such as yoga to keep the muscles relaxed and strengthened.  In addition, I recommend strengthening the abdominal area because weak abdominal muscles allow the low back to be pulled out of position which causes pain.  I'm certain that the physical therapist will give your girlfriend a series of exercises that are specifically designed to avoid any further problems.  It is important that she continue to do these exercises even when things feel fine.  Prevention is the key.

Thank you for your question, Efrain.  I hope that my answer was helpful.