Clinical Presentation & Protocol
Patient Usually Complains Of
Patient presents with acute onset of localized thoracic back pain following [mechanism of injury]. Pain is exacerbated by movement, deep inspiration, and spinal loading. No reported radiculopathy, bowel/bladder dysfunction, or lower extremity neurological deficits.
Clinical Examination Findings
Thoracic spine examination reveals midline tenderness at the T12 level with associated paravertebral muscle spasm. Neurological assessment: Motor strength 5/5 in bilateral lower extremities; sensation intact to light touch/pinprick; reflexes 2+ and symmetric; no clonus or Babinski sign. Gait is guarded.
Treatment Protocol
Conservative management initiated: Activity modification, strict avoidance of heavy lifting/twisting, and spinal orthosis (TLSO brace) as indicated. Analgesia provided via NSAIDs and muscle relaxants. Follow-up imaging in 2 weeks to assess for fracture progression or collapse.