Question
I've had a compression fracture for 3 mths. I've tried  acupuncture, chiropractor and I am still in pain. How long will this take to heal.

Answer
Hi Alicia,
Spinal Decompression Toronto Patients have asked me about this problem.
Thank you for taking time out of your schedule to write to me about your compression fracture question.  The literature suggests that compression fracture healing takes approximately 12 weeks. Having said that the healing component won't restore the vertebra to its normal height. Compression fractures usually take place either due to trauma such as a traumatic slip and fall or can be caused due two advanced osteoporosis.  Treatment usually involves pain control through some combination of medication, exercise, TENS, acupuncture chiropractic, physiotherapy etc.  There are many cases where I find patients with compression fractures that are completely asymptomatic, however cases where symptoms do occur these are the most utilized options.  In some extreme cases there is a minimal invasive surgical procedure called vertebroplasty where a cement is injected into the vertebra to increase it's height.  You can learn more about this by clicking on: http: www.mayoclinic.org/vertebroplasty/

I have come across a device which holds some promise for the control of the pain due to compression fractures, click on this link to learn more:  www.trekkelumbarlift.com.

I wish you well, and hope you will keep me posted. Can you please rate my answer on allexperts when your finished reading.

Dr. Ron Nusbaum
1 877 828-3472
www.backclinicsofcanada.ca