Suggest Treatment For Acute Pain In Thoracic Area

Posted on Tue, 17 Jun 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Tue, 17 Jun 2014 Answered on

Mon, 7 Jul 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : Thank you.
I'm a 52 yo female. Scoliosis post Harrington fusion in 1976 at age 14. Single rod.
Now having significant pain in thoracic region. Two weeks ago a friend hugged me and caused pain. Went to hospital in ambulance. X-rays show nothing broken, neuro exam showed intact. Follow up with spine surgeon who gave me medrol dose pack, Vicodin, lidocaine patch but said he did not recommend surgery and all he could do was calm it down.
Now still having acute stabbing pain in thoracic area in movement, midline and right side over ribs. Just moving right arm causes intense pain. I don't know what to do. I was trying to view a skeletal diagram to see if perhaps cartilage might be involved.

Answered by Dr. Vaibhav Gandhi (6 hours later)

Brief Answer:
MRI or CAT scan will help

Detailed Answer:
Hello
I have studied your case.
If x ray and neurologically you are normal then you can wait for surgery.
MRI and CAt scan will help to diagnose neurological damage.
Till time take neurotropic medication like pregabalin consulting your doctor.
Take treatment for osteoporosis after doing proper investigation.
Physiotherapy plays important role in reducing acute pain.
SUPPORTIVE brace may help.
I hope I have answered your questions. If you have further questions please feel free to ask. I will be happy to answer your question. Take care.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar