Vertebral Compression Fracture
A vertebral compression fracture occurs when the vertebral bone collapses, often due to osteoporosis. These fractures can cause severe pain, height loss, and spinal deformity, but effective treatments are available.
Symptoms of Vertebral Compression Fractures
- Sudden back pain - Often severe and localized to the fracture site
- Height loss - Progressive loss of height over time
- Stooped posture - Forward curvature of the spine (kyphosis)
- Limited mobility - Difficulty bending or twisting
- Pain with movement - Worsens with standing, walking, or coughing
- Breathing difficulties - In severe cases with multiple fractures
- Muscle spasms - Protective muscle contractions around the fracture
- Fatigue - From chronic pain and altered posture
Causes of Vertebral Compression Fractures
Osteoporosis (Most Common)
Age-related bone loss that weakens vertebrae, making them susceptible to fracture from minimal trauma or even normal activities.
Trauma
High-energy injuries from falls, motor vehicle accidents, or sports injuries that exceed the bone's ability to withstand force.
Cancer
Primary bone tumors or metastatic cancer that weakens the vertebral bone structure.
Risk Factors
Advanced age, female gender, low bone density, steroid use, and certain medical conditions increase fracture risk.
Diagnosis
Clinical Evaluation
Dr. Greenberg will assess your pain pattern, examine your posture and spine alignment, and evaluate for signs of neurological involvement. A detailed history helps identify potential causes and risk factors.
Imaging Studies
- X-rays: Initial imaging to identify vertebral collapse and deformity
- MRI: Determines fracture age and rules out other pathology
- Bone density scan: Assesses osteoporosis severity
Why Greenberg Spine
Dr. Greenberg's fellowship training at Mayo • Hopkins • Brown provides expertise in advanced fracture treatment including minimally invasive kyphoplasty and vertebroplasty procedures.
- Same-day imaging review when available
- Minimally invasive treatment options
- Comprehensive osteoporosis management
Conservative Treatment
Pain Management
Medications for pain relief, muscle relaxants, and targeted injections to manage acute symptoms.
Bracing
Spinal orthoses to provide support and limit painful movements during the healing process.
Osteoporosis Treatment
Medications to strengthen bones and prevent future fractures, along with calcium and vitamin D supplementation.
When to Consider Surgery
Objective Surgical Criteria
Minimally invasive procedures like kyphoplasty are considered when conservative treatment fails to provide adequate pain relief.
Clinical Indications
- Severe, persistent pain after 6-8 weeks
- Significant functional limitation
- Progressive vertebral collapse
- Failure of conservative treatment
Procedure Goals
- Immediate pain relief
- Restore vertebral height when possible
- Stabilize the fracture
- Improve function and mobility
Recovery Expectations
Recovery Timeline
Immediate (0-24 hours)
Most patients experience significant pain relief immediately after kyphoplasty.
First Week
Gradual return to normal activities with lifting restrictions under 10 pounds.
2-4 Weeks
Return to most normal activities, continued osteoporosis management.
Long-term
Focus on bone health and fall prevention to prevent future fractures.
What to Expect
Pain Relief
Most patients experience immediate and significant pain reduction after kyphoplasty.
Improved Mobility
Return to normal activities typically occurs within days to weeks.
Height Restoration
Some vertebral height may be restored, improving posture and reducing deformity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes vertebral compression fractures?
Most vertebral compression fractures are caused by osteoporosis, which weakens the bones. Other causes include trauma, cancer, or infections that affect bone strength.
How is a vertebral compression fracture diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves X-rays to identify the fracture, MRI to assess bone marrow changes and rule out other causes, and sometimes CT scans for detailed bone structure evaluation.
What is kyphoplasty and how does it help?
Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure where a balloon is inserted into the fractured vertebra to restore height, then bone cement is injected to stabilize the fracture and provide pain relief.
How long does recovery take after kyphoplasty?
Most patients experience immediate pain relief and can return to normal activities within 24-48 hours. Full recovery typically occurs within 1-2 weeks with proper precautions.
Can vertebral compression fractures be prevented?
Prevention focuses on maintaining bone health through adequate calcium and vitamin D, regular exercise, fall prevention, and osteoporosis treatment when indicated.
Related Conditions
Experiencing Vertebral Compression Fracture? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Marc Greenberg.
Get expert evaluation and learn about minimally invasive treatment options.
This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Individual results may vary. Consult with Dr. Greenberg to determine the most appropriate treatment for your specific condition.