Compression Fractures of the Spine

What Are Compression Fractures of the Spine?

This is a collapse of vertebral bone. It can affect one or more vertebrae. Compression fractures typically develop in your mid or lower back. This can change the shape of your spine.

Lumbar Compression Fractures

In order to better understand these compression fractures, let’s take a look at the anatomy of the spine. Compression fractures are most common in the bottom portion of the thoracic spine and the first vertebrae of the lumbar spine.

Lumbar compression fractures can occur because these vertebrae have been under too much pressure. The combination of bending forward and downward pressure on the spine can be quite damaging.

Think of someone who fell off a chair but remained in a sitting position till impacting the floor. This type of impact causes the head to move forward as the buttocks makes contact with the floor. The spine is bent forward and almost all resulting pressure is applied to the vertebrae.

A compression fracture in the lumbar spine can occur when the bone physically collapses, which causes the front part of the vertebrae to form a wedge shape. The interior portion is then compressed or crushed. In more severe cases, the back of the vertebrae can end up pushing into the spinal canal; applying significant pressure on the spinal cord. This is not common, but surgery may be required to treat this.

Common Causes of Compression Fracture

Most compression fractures develop because of osteoporosis. This is a loss of bone density. It causes your bones to become weak and brittle. If you have osteoporosis, routine daily activities such as bending down or coughing can gradually damage your vertebrae. Compression fractures are also caused by traumatic injury. And they can be caused by cancer of the spine.

Symptoms and Complications

Compression fractures can be painful. The pain from sudden fractures can be severe and debilitating. Fractures that develop gradually may only cause mild pain. Compression fractures can change your height. You can lose several inches of height over time. These fractures can also cause your spine to bend forward. You may develop a stooped posture and a rounded back. Compression fractures can put pressure on the spinal nerves that travel to the legs. This makes walking difficult. The pressure can also interfere with the function of the bowels and bladder.

Treatment for Compression Fractures

Treatment options may include rest and medications to control your pain. You may benefit from a back support and from physical therapy. If these methods are not helpful, you may benefit from a procedure such as vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty. These can help stabilize your spine. Your healthcare provider can develop a care plan that is right for your needs.