Compression Fractures

What are Compression Fractures?

Compression fractures occur when vertebrae in the spine break or collapse. The spine contains 24 bones stacked together that support your body weight and enable movement. These fractures typically affect the middle (thoracic) or lower (lumbar) spine and predominantly affect older adults.

Causes

Osteoporosis is the primary cause of compression fractures. This condition weakens bones, making them brittle and prone to fracture. When you have osteoporosis, a compression fracture can occur during everyday activities, like sneezing or stepping out of the shower. Postmenopausal women face elevated risk, with approximately 25% experiencing osteoporosis-related compression fractures in the U.S.

Other causes include:

• Severe trauma from falls or accidents
• Motor vehicle accidents
• Sports injuries
• Cancer that has spread to the spine

Symptoms

Interestingly, roughly two-thirds of osteoporosis-related compression fractures produce no symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they may include:

• Sudden, sharp back pain (ranging from mild to severe)
• Height reduction over time
• Stooped or hunched posture (kyphosis)
• Difficulty walking
• Restricted spinal movement
• Numbness or tingling
• Muscle weakness

Untreated symptoms may progressively worsen, limiting daily activities and quality of life.

Diagnosis

Dr. Lee will conduct a thorough evaluation including:

• Medical history review
• Physical examination
• X-rays to visualize the fracture
• MRI or CT scan for detailed imaging
• Bone density testing if osteoporosis is suspected

Treatment Options

Conservative Treatment

Many compression fractures can be treated without surgery:

• Pain medication
• Back bracing to support the spine
• Physical therapy
• Rest and activity modification
• Treatment for underlying osteoporosis

Surgical Treatment

If conservative treatments don't relieve your pain and symptoms, minimally invasive procedures may be recommended:

• Vertebroplasty: A procedure where bone cement is injected into the fractured vertebra to stabilize it
• Kyphoplasty: Similar to vertebroplasty, but first uses a balloon to create space and restore some of the lost vertebral height before cement is injected

These procedures are typically performed on an outpatient basis with quick recovery times.