Spinal Compression Fractures

Overview

Spinal compression‍ fractures occur when ⁣one or more​ bones in the spine, known ​as vertebrae, ​collapse. This condition is prevalent in people suffering from osteoporosis and can lead ⁤to⁣ severe⁤ back pain, loss ‍of height, stooped posture, or⁣ disability.

Types

There are various types ​of spinal compression fractures. ⁤They include:

    • Wedge fractures: Commonly occurring at the front of the vertebra, leading to‌ its collapse and results in the⁣ spine’s forward tilt

 

    • Axial burst fractures: Both​ the front and back of the vertebra break, often due to a fall from a ‍height

 

    • Crush fractures: ‌The entire bone ⁢breaks,⁣ not just the front or the back

 

Causes

Most spinal compression fractures are a⁣ result of⁢ osteoporosis. Other causes include:

    • Trauma or injury

 

    • Certain ⁤types of cancer that‍ spread to⁢ the spine

 

    • Long-term use ⁢of corticosteroids

 

Symptoms

Symptoms of spinal⁣ compression fractures may differ among individuals. Some common signs include:

    • Back pain

 

    • Sudden ⁢onset of pain

 

    • Difficulty in standing‍ or walking

 

    • Decreased ⁣mobility

 

    • Height loss

 

    • Deformity or curvature of the spine

 

Less common symptoms can include numbness, tingling, weakness,⁣ or trouble ‌urinating.

Diagnosis

A thorough physical examination,⁣ coupled with your medical history, is the first step⁣ to diagnose spinal compression fractures. Other diagnostic methods include:

    • X-ray: To ⁤check for fractures

 

    • MRI scans: To examine soft​ tissue damage

 

    • CT scans: To evaluate bone damage

 

    • Bone density scans: To determine the⁢ state of the⁢ bone’s health

 

Treatment‍ Options

Treatment for spinal compression fractures aims to alleviate pain, stabilize‍ the ​spine and restore mobility. It​ can range from conservative methods to surgical approaches.

1. Conservative Treatments:

    • Pain medications

 

    • Bed rest for a ‍short period

 

    • Brace use

 

    • Physical therapy

 

2. ‍ Surgical Treatments:

    • Vertebroplasty: A bone cement is injected into the collapsed vertebra

 

    • Kyphoplasty: Similar to vertebroplasty, but a balloon is first⁤ inserted to restore ⁤some height ‌to the vertebra

 

    • Spinal fusion surgery:‌ Joins vertebrae together so they can heal into one solid unit

 

Living With Spinal Compression Fractures

Living with spinal compression fractures can be challenging. Here ⁤are ⁣a few helpful ⁣strategies:

    • Engage in light exercise such as walking or swimming ⁤to⁤ maintain⁤ mobility and strengthen muscles

 

    • Practice ​good ‍posture

 

    • Eat a balanced diet⁤ rich in‍ calcium and vitamin D

 

    • Lose weight if necessary to ‌reduce stress on‍ the spine

 

    • Quit‍ smoking ⁤to ‍improve ‍bone⁣ health

 

When to Seek Help

It is crucial to seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

    • Severe and sudden back ‍pain

 

    • Loss of‍ height

 

    • Deformity in your spine

 

    • Trouble ​breathing or eating

 

    • Numbness, tingling or weakness

 

Remember, ⁤early ‌detection and treatment can improve your chances of full recovery ‍and‍ your overall‍ quality⁢ of life. Stay active, eat healthily, ​and monitor your bone ⁢health‍ regularly to prevent spinal compression fractures.