Collapse of one or more of the vertebra in the spine can be from an injury, such as a hard fall, but often occur in patients with arthritis or osteoporosis. In more rare instances, a compression fracture could be caused by a tumor in the spine.
Who is at risk for compression fractures?
Women with osteoporosis and older individuals tend to have less bone density and are at an increased risk of compression fractures. Osteoporosis thins the bones making them become weak and unable to bear the normal weight and pressures of daily activities.
A physical exam will reveal tenderness over the affected area. Further testing using imaging studies such as a spinal x-ray can show a compressed or shortened vertebra. The best tests include a CT scan or an MRI.
Pain may be treated with pain medicine, bracing and activity modification. Back braces and physical therapy options may be suggested for supporting and strengthening the back. In cases of osteoporosis, medications and calcium supplements can help prevent further fractures by strengthening bone. Vertebral fractures typically take about three months to fully heal. There are a number of treatment options that help reduce pain from compression fractures, which include:
5/5This review is on behalf of Ping Meng. According to her, she says the doctors are very nice and she appreciates the kindness towards the patients. The pain injection does work. For her it was 80-90% better after the injection. Highly recommended!!
Ram Muruganandan