Overview
When a vertebra in the spine becomes compressed due to trauma, it is called a vertebral compression fracture. Typically, the trauma must be substantial to break a vertebra unless the bone is already fragile due to advanced age or cancer. Vertebral compression fractures occur most commonly in the lower back but can occur in any portion of the spine.
TREATMENT OPTIONS
Treatment options may include:
- Back bracing
- Bed rest
- Bone density stabilizers
- Cold compress
- Kyphoplasty
- Pain medication (over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)
- Physical activity (increase or reduction)
- Prescription pain medications
- Rest
- Surgery
- Vertebroplasty
SYMPTOMS
Symptoms include:
- Incontinence
- Loss of height
- Numbness and/or weakness in arms or legs
- Pain in back, arms, or legs
- Pain in the upper, middle, or lower back
- Tingling
- Urinary Retention
DIAGNOSIS / TESTS
Diagnostic tests include:
- Computerized tomography (CT scan)
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
- Medical history review
- Nuclear bone scan
- Physical examination
- X-rays
TYPES
Common forms include:
- Burst fracture (during collapse, it bursts in several directions)
- Crush fracture (entire vertebra collapses)
- Wedge fracture (front of vertebra collapses but the back does not)
CAUSES
Causes & contributing factors may include:
- Osteoporosis
- Pathogenic fracture
- Trauma
FACTS
- Most vertebral compression fractures heal with appropriate treatment allowing patients to return to their everyday activities.
- When a spinal compression fracture is allowed to heal naturally, there should be a significant reduction in pain within days or weeks, but the pain can last as long as three months.
- A vertebral compression fracture may be the first indication that a person has cancer.
- Thin women have a higher risk of having vertebral compression fractures.
SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT TODAY!
Contact our office to schedule an appointment.
OUR OFFICE:
The Pain Experts of Arizona
3370 South Mercy Road
Suite 321
Gilbert, AZ 85297
Phone: 480-550-9393
Fax: 480-999-3375