Spinal Fracture

[Chubby42]

Hi guys

Last Nov I had high does radiotherapy on my L2 this has now turned into a spinal fracture is this common thing.

I found out a few weeks ago, I'm guessing it happened In Feb because my local doctor was treating me muscular back problems first even though I said I didn't think it was plus I enformed them of my radiotherapy & Zoladex. 🤔

[Hidden]

I have had two pars factures (stress fractures) on my L5 vertebrae for 10 years. It has yet to affect me in any way.

[Chubby42 in reply to Hidden]

Wish I could say the same, I'm in lots of pain most days taking paid killers for it & been told 3 to 4 months on average to heal a fracture. ☹️

[Hidden]

I’m sorry , that sounds very painful . May you heal and rid yourself of brutal pain 🙏

[Tall_Allen]

Yeah, it is common - the metastases really weaken the bone. Sometimes they can fuse the bones.

[Schwah]

Interesting question. I am preparing to do radiation to L5 at UCLA. As part of my pre-radiation consultation I have been told there is a small risk of fracture. Something under 5% I am told.

Schwah

[Teddysdad]

I think it's a case of what is the lesser of two evils.

I suffered a compression fracture of my T12 vertebrae just under 2 years ago, I have attached a picture. I am not sure whether it is down to the radiation or the metastasis of the cancer. The bone has had both.

One thing for sure is that it was very painful.

I have since had a vertebropalsty procedure where they inject cement into the bone and it really helped, it was an overnight miracle in terms of pain relief.

I still have to wear a spinal brace to prevent further damage but it is much better now.

I have had radiotherapy to various vertebrae and also Lutetium so a fair amount of radiation which will not have done much good in terms of my bones.

Good luck.

Picture of my T12 compression fracture

[Chubby42 in reply to Teddysdad]

Yep they don't tickle that's for sure, how long did yours take to heal.

[Teddysdad]

LOL, for sure!!

I wouldn't say it has healed as I still need to wear a spinal brace everyday and take morphine for pain relief but I am much more mobile and able to do things. About 18 months ago I could hardly walk.

I still have to be very cautious about bending and lifting as it could cause further damage or indeed one of the other vertebrae could go the same way.Overall I am in a much better place and making plans to get out and about when we can.

I hope all goes well with you.

[Chubby42 in reply to Teddysdad]

Hi Teddysdad

Gee that's a long time to have the same pain m8, I'm hoping to be back at work in 4 to 5 weeks.

Thanks hope yours improves too.