Vertebral Compression Fracture

Back pain is not just another inevitable aspect of growing older. It could be a sign of stress fractures within your spine called vertebral compression fractures.

Vertebral compression fractures occur when the normal vertebral body is “squashed”, or compressed in height. The consequences can include pain, limited mobility, height loss and spinal deformity. In severe cases, vertebral material may protrude into the spinal canal, affecting the spinal cord and nerves and, over time, even organ function.

The main causes are osteoporosis, tumors, and trauma.

The vast majority of vertebral compression fractures are the result of osteoporosis, a condition that causes bones to progressively become more thin and fragile. With weakened bones, even minor traumas, such as lifting a laundry basket, missing a step, or even coughing or sneezing, can cause these tiny fractures.

Tumors can originate in the spine or spread from cancers elsewhere in the body, commonly the breasts, lungs and intestines.

People with strong, healthy bones also can sustain compression fractures from a hard fall or blow to the back or torso.

Symptoms include: sudden onset of back pain; an increase in pain when standing or walking; variable pain relief when lying down; limited spinal mobility; weakness or numbness in the affected areas; height loss; deformity and disability; and shortness of breath.

When multiple fractures occur, additional signs can include a hunched back (“dowager's hump”), a bulging abdomen, gastrointestinal problems, shortness of breath, and hip pain.

Your doctor will take a thorough history, asking when the pain began, where it is located, whether it radiates, whether it changes with position, and how it has progressed. Diagnostic tests can include a spinal x-ray, MRI, nuclear bone scan, and DEXA scan.

Non-surgical options include medications, activity reduction, spinal bracing, bone density medications, physical therapy, and epidural injections. When surgery is needed, it is usually minimally invasive — see kyphoplasty.

Exercise regularly — strength/resistance training and/or lifting weights, combined with cardiovascular exercise, at least three times a week helps combat bone loss. Eat a diet rich in calcium, Vitamin D and phosphorus, and avoid smoking and excessive alcohol. Drink between six and eight cups of water a day. Maintain good posture with a neutral spine, keeping its natural curves in proper balance.