Why does it occur?

Compression Fractures of the spine are highly correlated with Osteoporosis and/or trauma.  Osteoporosis, which is most common in post menopausal women and elderly men, causes the bone to weaken and become brittle.  The vertebral body becomes very susceptible to fractures which may occur even in the absence of trauma.

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Approximately 50% of adults over the age of 80 will have a compression fracture on X-ray. Some compression fractures are painful while others may not cause much discomfort.  If severe enough, or in conjunction with multiple compression fractures, this may cause a spinal deformity and affect the lungs’ ability to expand properly.

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Compression fractures of the spine in the younger population are typically due to a significant trauma such as a motor vehicle accident or fall from a significant height.  Additionally, patients with a compression fracture in the absence of Osteoporosis or trauma may be related to a tumor in the bone.

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Symptoms:

While some patients do not have any appreciable symptoms, other patients present with back pain, shortness of breath, or noticeable change in spinal alignment (for example, a hunched back known as kyphosis).  More severe fractures can cause symptoms of numbness, tingling, weakness, or incontinence.  Patients with these symptoms need to be seen by a doctor as soon as possible to rule out spinal cord compression.

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Diagnostic Testing:

Dr. Lee will order an X-ray of your spine to rule out a compression fracture.  Some compression fractures are found on X-ray incidentally.  If the chronicity of the fracture is in question or if another underlying cause of back pain is suspected, Dr. Lee may consider an MRI or CT scan in addition to the X-rays.

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Treatment Options:

Treating the underlying cause of the compression fracture is an important aspect of treatment.  Patients may be referred to a specialist to assess the severity of Osteoporosis or other underlying cause.  A supportive back brace may be advised, especially for acute and painful fractures, and will typically be worn for up to 3 months.  Dr. Lee will monitor acute compression fractures with follow up X-rays.  Once the fracture has stabilized, Physical Therapy may be advised.

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Surgical Treatment:

 

If the compression fracture is severe, pinching your nerve/spinal cord, impacting your breathing or ability to stand erect, surgery may be advised. The majority of spinal compression fractures do not require surgical intervention however.

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*It is important to note that all of the information above is not specific to anyone and is subject to change based on many different factors including but not limited to individual patient, diagnosis, and treatment specific variables. It is provided as an educational service and is not intended to serve as medical advice.  Anyone seeking specific orthopedic advice or assistance should consult Dr. Steven Lee or an orthopedic specialist of your choice.

 

*Dr. Steven Lee is a board certified orthopedic surgeon and is double fellowship trained in the areas of Hand and Upper Extremity Surgery, and Sports Medicine. He has offices in New York City, Scarsdale, and Westbury Long Island.