What Are Spinal Compression Fractures?

Spinal compression fractures are a common type of fracture that can occur anywhere along the spine. They happen when one or more vertebrae (the bones that make up the spinal column) collapse due to compression from either an external force, such as a car accident, or from the weight of the body pressing down on the spine. In this blog post, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatments you have available with Texas Spine and Sports Therapy Center.

What Are Spinal Compression Fractures?

Spinal compression fractures often occur in people with weakened bones, such as those affected by Osteoporosis or cancer. They are also common in older adults due to age-related bone loss. The fracture can range from a simple crack (called an incomplete fracture) to a complete break (called a complete fracture).

What Causes Spinal Compression Fractures?

Most spinal compression fractures occur when the spine is subjected to a sudden force, such as a car accident or fall. Other causes can include osteoporosis, tumor growth in the vertebrae, or weakened bones due to age-related bone loss.

Osteoporosis

A common cause of compression fractures is osteoporosis. This disease thins the bones, often to the point that they are too weak to bear normal pressure. The thinning bones can collapse during normal activity, leading to a spinal compression fracture. Spinal compression fractures are the most common type of osteoporotic fractures. These vertebral fractures can permanently alter the shape and strength of the spine. The fractures usually heal on their own and the pain goes away. However, sometimes the pain can persist if the crushed bone fails to heal adequately.

In severe cases of osteoporosis, actions as simple as bending forward can be enough to cause a “crush fracture,” or spinal compression fracture. This type of vertebral fracture causes loss of height and a humped back, especially in elderly women.

Trauma

Trauma to the spinal vertebrae can also lead to minor or severe fractures. Such trauma could come from a fall, a forceful jump, a car accident, or any event that stresses the spine past its breaking point.

Metastatic Disease

Another cause of vertebral fractures is a metastatic disease. Metastasis is a term that refers to the spread of cancer cells into other areas of the body. The bones of the spine are a common place for many types of cancers to spread.

A compression fracture of the spine that appears for little or no reason may be the first indication that an unrecognized cancer has spread to the spine. The cancer causes destruction of part of the vertebra, weakening the bone until it collapses. This is a sign that something going on internally is harming the bones.

Symptoms

Compression fracture symptoms range from mild to severe. Some people may not have symptoms. Their provider may discover the fracture when they do an X-ray for another condition. But many people are unable to stand or walk without pain. Symptoms of a fractured spine include:

• Back pain, which can come on suddenly and last a long time (chronic back pain). It usually develops anywhere between the shoulders and the lower back. Pain usually gets better when you lie down, and it worsens when you stand or walk.
• Decreased mobility or flexibility in the spine. You may not be able to twist or bend over.
• Hunched over appearance (some people call this curved upper back a “dowager’s hump” or hunchback).
• Loss of height as the vertebrae compress and the back curves.
• Pinched nerves and nerve damage, which can cause tingling and numbness in the back and difficulty walking.
• Problems controlling the bladder or bowels (these symptoms happen with severe, untreated fractures).

Treatment

Treatment for spinal compression fractures usually involves a combination of rest and physical therapy. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the fracture or stabilize the spine. Physical therapy is especially beneficial for spinal compression fractures because it helps strengthen weakened muscles, improve flexibility, and reduce pain. Surgery may also be necessary, depending on the severity of the fracture and any other underlying conditions.

Medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can reduce inflammation and relieve pain. Other medications, such as epidural steroid injections or nerve blocks, may also be used to help manage pain. The goal of treatment is to reduce pain, improve function, and help restore normal alignment of the spine. With proper treatment and care, most people with spinal compression fractures are able to return to their normal activities.

In some cases, lifestyle modifications may be recommended as part of the treatment plan. These changes can include quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, and exercising regularly. Eating a balanced diet that includes enough calcium and Vitamin D can also help strengthen bones and reduce the risk of fractures.

Make an Appointment with Texas Spine and Sports Therapy Center

If you think you may have a compression fracture, it is important to seek medical attention right away. At Texas Spine and Sports Therapy Center, our experienced doctors can diagnose the condition and recommend an appropriate treatment plan. We offer a full range of services, including physical therapy, chiropractic care, massage therapy and surgery if needed. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.