Vertebral Compression Fracture
Overview
Causes
Osteoporosis is the most common cause. Weakened bones are more likely to break from:
- Everyday actions, such as coughing, sneezing, or lifting light objects
- Falling from a chair
- Tripping
Other causes may be:
- Trauma from:
- A steep fall
- A motor vehicle accident
- A sports accident
- Violence
- Bone cancer
Risk Factors
A fracture caused by osteoporosis is more common in women who have been through menopause. A fracture caused by trauma is more common in young men.
Other things that may raise the risk are:
- Osteoporosis
- Prior history of fractures
- Dementia
- Depression
- Prior falls or being at risk of falling
- Inactivity
- Smoking
- Alcohol use disorder
- Long term corticosteroid use
SymptomsandDiagnosis
Symptoms
Most people do not have symptoms. Those who do may have:
- Mild to severe pain in the middle or lower back
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness
- Problems walking
Treatments
Treatment
Underlying causes will need to be treated. The goal of treatment is to manage pain and help with healing. Options depend on the severity of the fracture. Choices are:
- Over the counter or prescription pain relievers
- A back brace
- Physical therapy to help with strength, flexibility, and range of motion
Some people may need surgery. Choices are:
- Vertebroplasty —Liquid cement is injected into the bone to ease pain and restore movement.
- Kyphoplasty —A balloon-like device is used to create a small space in the bone near the fracture. Then cement is injected into the space.
- Spinal fusion —Two or more bones are joined together in the spine to keep them from moving.
This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.
Edits to original content made by Denver Health.
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