Question
My name is Rob and im 17 just about to turn 18 3 months and 2 weeks ago i was in a very bad accident.  I type II fractured my c2 almost breaking it.  They put a screw in my neck and I was put into a aspen collar for 10 weeks. Now its my third week into physical therapy and im just about to start college.  I have a few question though.  What will I except in my future like will I get really bad arthritis?  Also what will I not be able to do.  I was planning on going into the secret service or FBI but i dont think thats an option now but I hope its still a posibility.  Everytime I ask my doctor a question he beats around the bush.  I feel like hes not telling something.  I feel fine just some pain in my neck mostly muscle pain.  Will i ever be able to work out again?  I know I am very lucky.  I really dont have many side effects from the accident.  The only things I know of are numbness in my left arm and leg and under my chin.  I dont remember things to well also but thats about it.  If you want to know anything else about the accident just ask

Thank you,
Sincerly,

Rob M

Answer
Hi Rob,
Thanks so much for your questions.

It's difficult for me to say exactly what problems you may experience in the future. I don't know about arthritis but there may be some stiffness due to the formation of calcium buildup and scar tissue. If you can handle the pain and your range of motion isn't limited very much, you shouldn't be too concerned. But, if your doctor tells you to be careful about the types of ativities you do, then heed his advice.

If you are not satisfied with your doctor's recommendations or he's not answering your questions to your satisfaction, then seek a second opinion from another doctor. Preferrably a neurologist or neurosurgeon.

About your future career moves, that's entirely up to you. I applaud your desire to seek employment with the Secret Service or the FBI. There are many different areas within each agency you can pursue should your injury limit your physical activity, so don't get discouraged.

Also, you will need to cunsult with your doctor about how much and how often you can work out.

I sincerely hope this has answered your questions and I hope everything works out for you and your future career.

If you have any more questions, please don't hesitate to ask me anytime.

Thanks again,
John McKinzie