Unfortunately, spinal fractures are far more common than initially believed, affecting millions of people worldwide. Statistics clearly demonstrate that the problem is not limited to trauma or accidents, but can also include osteoporosis as a contributing factor to further weakening of the bones, to the point where a compression fracture can occur even with minimal stress. This particular problem has the potential to disrupt the dynamics of the entire body, affecting factors such as posture and ability to perform everyday tasks. Therefore, therapeutic solutions, such as those offered by The Painless Center, are currently being intensively sought.
A Silent Problem
Vertebral fractures can be as varied as their causes. Most concerning is that they can sometimes occur without symptoms, meaning they don’t always cause pain or visible signs. This often leads to delayed diagnoses, increasing the possibilities of complications and worsening the patient’s condition.
Furthermore, fractures of the spine not only damage the bone, but can also have serious repercussions for the surrounding nerves and spinal cord, potentially leading to chronic pain, mobility problems, and, in some cases, paralysis.
Therefore, early diagnosis is imperative for ensuring the success of the treatment plan. Imaging techniques, such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs, can be highly valuable in diagnosing spinal fractures, as they help your doctor assess the magnitude of fracture beyond the initial physical examination.
Osteoporosis and other Causes
The main cause of vertebral compression fractures is osteoporosis. This condition, characterized by low bone density, prevents the spine from supporting the requisite weight necessary for everyday activities. Because of this, compression in the fractured area becomes intolerable, even with the simplest movements.
In fact, since osteoporosis primarily affects older adults, they are the ones most frequently affected by vertebral compression fractures. However, it can also affect young people in cases of accidents, falls, or spinal tumors.
Recognizing the Signs of a Compression Fracture
In the case of vertebral fractures due to osteoporosis, most patients do not experience symptoms initially; if they do, they are mild. But, gradually, the patient may develop symptoms that can be described as follows:
- Back pain, intermittent or continuous, that worsens when standing or moving.
- Temporary pain relief during rest.
- Weakness or numbness in the area of the fracture.
- Mobility problems.
- Reduced height, as well as a severely curved spine, characterized by a hump.
In some cases, if there are spinal cord injuries in addition to the fracture, symptoms related to neurological problems may occur, such as limb weakness or paralysis. These problems are more likely if the vertebral compression fracture is due to trauma or a tumor.
Read more: 4 Common Types of Back Pain (And How to Treat Them)
Conservative and Surgical Care
Once a vertebral compression fracture is diagnosed, the patient should receive immediate care, either conservative or surgical.
Conservative Treatment
This type of treatment focuses on managing the fracture symptoms with pain medications, physical therapy, and lumbar orthotics. In these cases, consolidation may occur over time, although it is quite slow.
Surgical Treatment
If the vertebral fracture is more severe, or if significant pain relief is not achieved with non-surgical care, spinal surgery becomes an option. Two different surgical options that can be considered for this type of injury are vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty.
Preventing Compression Fractures
Although they can be treated, there are certain methods to prevent vertebral compression fractures. These methods are:
- Maintaining a balanced lifestyle with physical activities that strengthen the spinal muscles.
- Eating a healthy, balanced and nutritious diet that prioritizes calcium, vitamin D, and phosphorus, which are necessary to prevent bone problems such as osteoporosis.
- Maintaining good posture and stretching.
- Drinking plenty of water.
The activities mentioned above can help prevent the development of spinal fractures. However, if a fracture occurs for any reason, or if there are signs that one may develop, it is essential to consult a doctor.
Compression Fracture Relief at The Painless Center
While conservative surgical methods have long been used to treat spinal fractures, the last few decades have seen a revolutionary shift in their management. Recent advances have focused primarily on the benefits of non-invasive treatment, which has proven to be highly effective and beneficial, especially in terms of minimizing post-operative pain.
Dr. Jason Chiu and our team of expert specialists at The Painless Center (Clifton and Tenafly, NJ) are dedicated to your recovery. We offer personalized care and minimally invasive treatment, applying advanced scientific knowledge to help you manage chronic pain and accelerate injury recovery. Discover the transformative benefits of our different treatments to control pain, and improve your quality of life. Call us or schedule your appointment online to begin your journey to a better future.