A Quick Glimpse About Spinal Compression Fractures

Spinal compression fractures are tiny cracks or breaks in the vertebrae. Vertebrae are the bones that stack to form your spine. These fractures can cause significant pain and limit mobility, impacting daily life. While they can occur anywhere in the spine, they most commonly affect the middle (thoracic) and lower back (lumbar) regions. Orthopedic instruments and implants like titanium spinal implants may be required to fix these issues. 

This blog will discuss the basics of spinal compression fractures along with their diagnosis and treatment. 

What Causes Spinal Compression Fractures?

Spinal compression fractures can occur because of various traumatic and non-traumatic causes. Here are the common ones:

Osteoporosis

This bone-weakening disease makes vertebrae more susceptible to fractures, even from minor falls or twisting movements.

Trauma

A fall from a height, a car accident, or other significant impact can fracture vertebrae.

Cancer

Tumors in the spine can weaken bones. This increases the risk of fractures.

Certain medications

Long-term use of corticosteroids, medications often prescribed for conditions like asthma or arthritis, can weaken bones.

What Are the Symptoms of Spinal Compression Fractures?

Sudden and severe back pain is the most common symptom of a spinal compression fracture. The pain often worsens with activities like standing, walking, or bending forward, and feels better during rest. Other signs may include:

• Height loss or a hunched-over posture (kyphosis)

• Decreased flexibility in the spine

• Tenderness in the affected area

What is the Diagnosis for Spinal Compression Fractures?

If you experience sudden back pain, especially after a fall or other trauma, it's crucial to seek medical attention. Diagnosing the condition early is the key to better treatment and healing.

X-rays

These images can reveal the location and severity of the fracture.

MRI scans

These scans provide detailed views of the bones, soft tissues, and nerves around the fracture.

Bone density scans

These scans measure bone mineral density to assess osteoporosis risk.

How Spinal Compression Fractures Can Be Treated?

Treatment options for spinal compression fractures depend on the severity of the fracture and your overall health. Common approaches include:

Rest

Limiting activities that cause pain allows the fracture to heal.

Pain medication

Over-the-counter pain relievers or prescription medications can help manage pain.

Bracing

Wearing a back brace for several weeks may stabilize the spine and ease pain.

Physical therapy

Exercise can improve strength, flexibility, and posture to support the spine's healing and prevent future fractures.

Vertebral augmentation

In some cases, minimally invasive procedures like vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty can inject bone cement into the fractured vertebra to stabilize it and reduce pain.

What Are the Prevention Tips for Spinal Compression Fractures?

If you're at risk of spinal compression fractures, there are steps you can take to prevent them:

Maintain strong bones

Eat a calcium-rich diet, get enough vitamin D, and engage in weight-bearing exercises to promote bone health.

Fall prevention

Make your home environment safer by installing grab bars, removing tripping hazards, and improving lighting.

Maintain good posture

Practice good posture while standing, sitting, and lifting to reduce stress on the spine.

Medications

If you're taking medications that weaken bones, discuss alternative options with your doctor.

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