Back and Neck Pain Exchange

In July, 2010, I fractured my C2 in a diving accident. I was sent home from the ER (after a neurospinal surgeon reviewed my CT scan) with a Phili Collar and told to see an Orthopedist on Monday. I was told by the Orthopedist that I had, in fact, fractured my C2 and that the part of the vertabra that extends out was fractured in 3 different pieces. I was told I was young and healthy, and that I would be in the collar for 6-12 weeks. I ended up in the collar for 14 weeks, then stepped down to a "soft" collar. I wore that for another 4 weeks. I had 2 CT scan since the accident and my ortho told me in January that it's still showing a fracture. He said that my body did not produce spurs, and he was not sure why the fracture had not healed. He said that my fracture was stable, though, and said I could stop wearing the collar. Nine months after my accident, I am still in considerable pain, and my doctor cannot tell me why the fracture hasn't healed. He essentially told me that I have two options: either live with the pain for the rest of my life, or have surgery (which he does NOT recommend). I am at a standstill, have no answers, and am frustrated. The mobility in my neck is limited and, if I overdo it, I am forced to the couch where I stay until I can move again.

Does anyone have a similar story and, if so, what did you do about it? Is there anything that can help? My ortho said even physical therapy would not help. I am currently taking three Tylenol 3 a day for the pain. It doesn't even come close to taking the pain away, but it does get me through the day without crying. My dr has recommended a stronger pain med, but I'm resistant as I work at a drug and alcohol facility and I've seen what those medications can do.

Any suggestions or help would be greatly appreciated! Thanks.