Will fractured T2, and T4 vertebrae heal on their own?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a little stressed as I had a car accident a week ago. I have a fracture in my T2 and T4 vertebrae. The doctor sent me home with no brace and asked me to just take it easy. They advised me not to lift heavy weights and it will heal in six weeks. I am feeling good but there is a little sore. I did not have any painkillers for three days now. Will they heal like a normal fracture?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to iclniq.com.

You mentioned a car accident about a week ago in which you fractured T2 and T4 vertebrae. For any spinal fracture, the opinion is based upon a detailed neurological examination of the patient. X-ray and if needed MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) of the involved region of the spine is taken to know the status of the bony alignment and the spinal cord.

Since you have been advised six weeks of light work, not lifting any heavy weight, etc, it appears that you just have a very minor crack of the involved vertebrae. However, I will reserve my opinion once I have all the information in the form of clinical examination findings and related investigation reports. Also if the fracture is minor or undisplaced, then sometimes doctors do not prescribe braces because the rib cage provides enough splintage.

I hope that you get your answer.

Please let me know if you need any help.

Thank you.