L1 compression fracture

Bones, joints and muscles
1

Hi there, i suffered a compression fracture of my L1 Vertebrae 2 months ago. The fracture is stable and I am under the care of the physiotherapists. Over the weekend I have been experiencing pins and needles in my right hand and arm, a sensation of someone pouring cold water on my left thigh and occasionally i have had pins and needles in my legs and feet. Friends have asked me to call NHS24 and not wait to try to see my GP tomorrow. Anyone got any advice? Thanks

2

Hi LadyKirsty

I had a L1 compression fracture September last year. I never had issues in my arms or hands, but I had/have issues with my buttocks suddenly turning ice cold, and with the sciatic nerve running down the back of both legs, causing a numb feeling in my middle toes. 

I don't know and I seriously doubt if a GP has enough knowledge to assess these issues, my orthopedist didn't even know enough about it, wasn't intrested either. I had to turn to a neurosurgeon to get proper exams and diagnoses. The impact of a fall can cause damage to surrounding tissue and structures: ligaments, nerves, muscles, facet joints, pressure on the spinal cord, persisting inflammation, etc. 

Don't let it linger on, the faster you get help from a knowledgable dr, the better. 

I hope you'll get some help...

3

Hi Kirsty,

The symptoms you're describing sounds like they are occurring due to a nerve being pushed or pinched.

I would imagine your GP will refer you to a orthopaedic specialist who will need an MRI scan to see what's causing the problem.

If it is unbearable I would go to hospital where they will treat the pain/symptoms. If it's not, I'd go to you're GP in the morning.

I'm not a doctor but someone who has been dealing with a very similar injury for quite some time. So the above is merely my take on what you've said.

I wish you a speedy recovery.

Dave

4

Thanks David. I couldn't get an appointment for today but will try again tomorrow. If it gets any worse I will be going to A&E. It's not "agony" but is very uncomfortable.

Thanks for your good wishes.

Keep smiiling, it's the only infection worth spreading. :D

5

Thankks for your reeply Marlenes. I am sorry to hear you have the same injury as I do. The discomforrt has eased a lot since I first posted so I am going to go back to my GP next week(my next scheduled appointment) and I will ask for referral from him. Thanks again.

Keep smiling, it's the only infection worrth spreading.