What Is Vertebral Compression Fracture?
The bones of the back are called the vertebrae. A vertebral fracture is a break in one of these bones. A vertebral compression fracture occurs when the front part of the bone is squeezed or compressed.
Causes of Vertebral Compression Fractures
A vertebral compression fracture can be caused by:
- Osteoporosis — a condition of weakened bones
- A blow to the back
- Falling down
- Landing on your heels when jumping from a height
- Having major trauma such as a motor vehicle accident
Risk Factor for Developing Vertebral Compression Fractures
Factors that increase your risk of vertebral compression fractures include:
- Osteoporosis
- Trauma
- Cancer
- Use of antipsychotic medications
- Proton pump inhibitors
- Poor mental functioning
- Poor mobility
- Poor strength
- Previous vertebral fracture within the last year
Vertebral Compression Fracture Symptoms
Symptoms may include:
- Mild to severe pain in the middle or lower back
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness
- Difficulty walking
- Loss of control of the bowel or bladder
Diagnosing Vertebral Compression Fracture
You will be asked about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done.
Images may be taken of your bodily structures. This can be done with:
- X-rays
- MRI scan
- CT scan
- Bone scan
You may be tested to determine if you have osteoporosis. This can be done with a bone mineral density test.
Vertebral Compression Fracture Treatment
Treatment includes:
Surgery
Vertebroplasty involves liquid cement being injected into the vertebra. It can help relieve the pain associated with vertebral fractures. The procedure may be best for recent fractures.
Talk with your doctor to see if this option may be right for you. For example, it may not be as helpful in people whose fractures are due to osteoporosis.
In kyphoplasty, doctors use a balloon to create a cavity. They then inject cement into the cavity. This procedure is designed to relieve pain. It can also improve spinal deformities from the fractures.
Spinal fusion may be used to join together two or more bones in the spine. This procedure stops the bones from moving.
Nonsurgical Treatments
Your doctor may advise:
- A brief period of bed rest and a decrease in activity
- Medication to control the pain
- Strengthening exercises for your back muscles
- A back brace
Treatment for Osteoporosis
Medications
To prevent further bone loss, medications may include:
- Estrogen/progesterone hormone replacement therapy
- Bisphosphonates to prevent loss of bone mass
- Estrogen agonist/antagonist to treat weak or thin bones
- Calcitonin to regulate calcium levels in the body
- Parathyroid hormone to regulate calcium and phosphate levels in the body
The following may also be advised:
- Vitamin and mineral supplements, especially calcium combined with vitamin D
- Lifestyle changes — These may include weight-bearing and resistance exercises for both the upper and lower extremities.
Preventing Vertebral Compression Fracture
Building strong bones will help prevent fractures. However, most bone strength is attained by women before they are 25 years old. That makes maintaining bone density and strength at older ages even more important.
Follow these prevention guidelines:
- Get plenty of weight-bearing exercise. This includes walking, jogging, or sports such as tennis.
- Do resistance exercises for arms and legs. This will help to improve your strength and balance.
- Get plenty of calcium, vitamin D, and protein in your diet. Talk to your doctor if you think you need supplements.
- If you have osteoporosis, you should talk to your doctor about treatment options. If you had an early menopause, talk to your doctor about this.
- If you smoke, talk to your doctor about ways to quit.
- Drink alcohol only in moderation. Moderate alcohol intake is two drinks per day for men and one drink per day for women.
- Remove any obstacles in your home that could cause you to fall. These may include throw rugs or furniture.
Content was created using EBSCO’s Health Library. Edits to original content made by Rector and Visitors of the University of Virginia. This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice.