What are the main causes of spinal compression fractures. How are compression fractures diagnosed. What are the most effective treatment options for spinal compression fractures. Who is at highest risk for developing compression fractures of the spine. Can compression fractures be prevented.

Understanding Spinal Compression Fractures: An Overview

Spinal compression fractures occur when part of a vertebra, or bone in the spine, collapses. These fractures most commonly affect the thoracic (middle) or lumbar (lower) spine. The most prevalent type is a wedge fracture, where the front of the vertebral body collapses while the back remains intact, resulting in a wedge-shaped bone.

Multiple compression fractures can lead to kyphosis, a spinal deformity characterized by an exaggerated forward curve in the upper back, often referred to as a “hunchback.” This condition may also result in a noticeable loss of height over time.

Anatomy of the Spine: Key Components Involved in Compression Fractures

To better understand compression fractures, it’s essential to be familiar with the basic anatomy of the spine:

• Vertebral arch: A ring-shaped section forming the roof of the spinal canal, protecting the spinal cord
• Spinous process: A projection from the vertebral arch that can be felt when pressing on the skin in the middle of the back
• Vertebral body: The cylindrical-shaped portion of the vertebra that provides the majority of structural support

In a compression fracture, it’s specifically the vertebral body that collapses, compromising the spine’s stability and potentially causing pain or neurological symptoms.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Spinal Compression Fractures

Compression fractures may or may not cause noticeable symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they can include:

• Pain in the back, arms, or legs
• Numbness and/or weakness in the arms or legs (if the fracture affects the spinal cord or surrounding nerves)
• Gradual loss of height over time

The onset of pain can vary depending on how quickly the fracture occurs. A sudden compression fracture may cause intense, immediate pain, while a gradual fracture might lead to a slow increase in discomfort over time.

Are compression fractures always painful?

Not necessarily. While many people experience pain with compression fractures, some may not have any symptoms at all. The severity and duration of pain can vary greatly depending on the individual and the specific nature of the fracture.

Diagnostic Procedures for Identifying Spinal Compression Fractures

When a compression fracture is suspected, healthcare providers employ various diagnostic tools to confirm the condition and assess its severity:

1. X-rays (plain films): Provide an overall assessment of bone anatomy, spinal curvature, and alignment
2. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): Produces detailed images of organs and structures within the body
3. Computed Tomography (CT) scan: Offers more detailed images of bones, muscles, fat, and organs than general X-rays
4. Nuclear bone scan: Measures bone activity to identify damaged areas

Additionally, doctors may order tests to check for underlying conditions such as osteoporosis, tumors, or infections that could contribute to bone weakening.

How accurate are X-rays in diagnosing compression fractures?

X-rays are generally quite effective in identifying compression fractures, especially when they’re significant. However, they may not detect very small fractures or provide detailed information about soft tissue involvement. For this reason, additional imaging studies like MRI or CT scans are often used to complement X-ray findings and provide a more comprehensive diagnosis.

Risk Factors and Causes of Spinal Compression Fractures

While compression fractures can occasionally occur in healthy vertebrae due to severe trauma, they more commonly affect weakened bones. The primary risk factors and causes include:

• Osteoporosis: The most common cause, particularly affecting elderly women
• Tumors: Cancerous or benign growths can weaken vertebrae
• Infections: Certain infections may compromise bone strength
• Trauma: High-impact injuries, falls, or accidents can cause fractures even in healthy bones

Understanding these risk factors is crucial for prevention and early intervention strategies.

Can lifestyle factors influence the risk of compression fractures?

Yes, several lifestyle factors can impact the risk of developing compression fractures. These include:

• Smoking: Reduces bone density and slows healing
• Lack of physical activity: Weakens bones and muscles
• Poor nutrition: Inadequate calcium and vitamin D intake can lead to weakened bones
• Excessive alcohol consumption: Interferes with bone formation and increases fall risk

Treatment Options for Spinal Compression Fractures

The management of compression fractures typically focuses on non-operative approaches, including:

• Pain medications: To manage discomfort and improve quality of life
• Modified physical activity: To promote healing while preventing further injury
• Bracing: Supports the back and limits forward bending to reduce pain and prevent additional fractures

In some cases, particularly when conservative treatments fail to provide relief or when neurological symptoms are present, surgical interventions may be considered.

What are the surgical options for treating compression fractures?

While surgery is not always necessary, some patients may benefit from procedures such as:

• Vertebroplasty: Injection of bone cement into the fractured vertebra to stabilize it
• Kyphoplasty: Similar to vertebroplasty, but involves creating a space in the vertebra with a balloon before injecting cement
• Spinal fusion: Joining two or more vertebrae together to provide stability in severe cases

Preventing Spinal Compression Fractures: Strategies for Bone Health

While not all compression fractures can be prevented, several strategies can help reduce the risk:

1. Regular exercise: Weight-bearing and resistance exercises strengthen bones and muscles
2. Balanced diet: Ensure adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D
3. Smoking cessation: Quitting smoking can improve bone density
4. Fall prevention: Make home modifications to reduce fall risks
5. Bone density screening: Regular check-ups can detect osteoporosis early

Implementing these preventive measures can significantly decrease the likelihood of experiencing compression fractures, especially in high-risk individuals.

How effective are calcium and vitamin D supplements in preventing compression fractures?

Calcium and vitamin D supplements can be beneficial in preventing compression fractures, particularly in individuals with deficiencies or those at high risk for osteoporosis. However, their effectiveness varies depending on factors such as age, overall health, and current bone density. It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate dosage and whether supplements are necessary in addition to dietary sources.

Living with Spinal Compression Fractures: Long-term Management and Quality of Life

For individuals who have experienced compression fractures, long-term management is crucial for maintaining quality of life and preventing future incidents. This may involve:

• Ongoing pain management strategies
• Physical therapy to improve strength and flexibility
• Regular follow-up appointments with healthcare providers
• Lifestyle modifications to support bone health
• Emotional support and counseling to address the psychological impact of chronic pain or physical limitations

With proper care and management, many people with compression fractures can maintain an active and fulfilling lifestyle.

Can compression fractures heal on their own?

In many cases, compression fractures can heal on their own over time, typically within 6 to 8 weeks. However, the healing process depends on factors such as the severity of the fracture, the patient’s age, overall health, and adherence to treatment recommendations. Even after healing, the vertebra may remain in its compressed shape, potentially leading to ongoing pain or postural changes. This underscores the importance of proper medical care and follow-up to ensure optimal recovery and prevent future complications.

Understanding spinal compression fractures is essential for early detection, effective treatment, and prevention. By recognizing the symptoms, risk factors, and available treatment options, individuals can take proactive steps to maintain their spinal health and overall well-being. Regular check-ups, a healthy lifestyle, and prompt medical attention when symptoms arise are key components in managing and preventing these fractures, ultimately contributing to better quality of life and mobility as we age.

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Compression = the application of strong pressure
Fracture = a break in a bone

A compression fracture occurs when part of a vertebra, or bone in the spine, collapses.

The bones of the spine have two main section. The vertebral arch is a ring-shaped section that forms the roof of the spinal canal and protects the spinal cord. You can feel the spinous process, a projection from this arch, when you press on the skin in the middle of your back. The vertebral body is the cylindrical shaped portion of the vertebral one that lies in front and provides the majority of structural support. In a compression fracture, the vertebral body collapses.

The most common type of compression fracture is a wedge fracture, in which the front of the vertebral body collapses but the back does not, meaning that the bone assumes a wedge shape.

Sometimes, more than one vertebra fractures, a condition called multiple compression fractures. Multiple compression fractures can lead to kyphosis, a spinal deformity when the upper back curves forward, creating the appearance of a hunchback. In some cases, a person who experiences multiple compression fractures may notice a loss of height.

Compression fractures usually occur in the thoracic (middle) or lumbar (lower) spine.

Symptoms

Compression fractures may or may not cause symptoms. If compression fractures cause symptoms, these may include:

• pain in back, arms, or legs
• numbness and/or weakness in arms or legs (if the fracture has affected the spinal cord and/or surrounding nerves in the spine)
• over an extended period, patients may notice a loss of height

A compression fracture that occurs suddenly can be very painful, but a compression fracture that occurs gradually may cause pain only gradually.

Diagnosis

To diagnose compression fracture, a doctor will take a complete medical history and perform a physical examination. If a compression fracture is suspected, the doctor may order the following diagnostic procedures:

• X-ray (also known as plain films) –test that uses invisible electromagnetic energy beams (X-rays) to produce images of bones. Soft tissue structures such as the spinal cord, spinal nerves, the disc and ligaments are usually not seen on X-rays, nor on most tumors, vascular malformations, or cysts. X-rays provide an overall assessment of the bone anatomy as well as the curvature and alignment of the vertebral column. Spinal dislocation or slippage (also known as spondylolisthesis), kyphosis, scoliosis, as well as local and overall spine balance can be assessed with X-rays. Specific bony abnormalities such as bone spurs, disc space narrowing, vertebral body fracture, collapse, or erosion can also be identified on plain film X-rays. Dynamic, or flexion/extension X-rays (X-rays that show the spine in motion) may be obtained to see if there is any abnormal or excessive movement or instability in the spine at the affected levels.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) – a diagnostic procedure that uses a combination of large magnets, radiofrequencies, and a computer to produce detailed images of organs and structures within the body.
• Computed tomography scan (CT scan): a diagnostic imaging procedure that uses a combination of X-rays and computer technology to produce detailed images of the body. A CT scan shows detailed images of any part of the body, including the bones, muscles, fat, and organs. CT scans are more detailed than general X-rays.
• Nuclear bone scan: a diagnostic procedure in which a radioactive substance is injected into the body to measure activity in the bones. (The amount of radiation is small–less than the radiation in half of one CT scan.) This scan helps identify damaged bones.

Since compression fractures usually occur in weakened bone, doctors may order additional tests to look for osteoporosis, tumor, or infection.

Risk Factors

Rarely, compression fractures occur in healthy vertebrae as a result of trauma.

More often, the vertebra with a compression fracture is already weakened. The most common cause of weakening is osteoporosis, a condition that causes weak and brittle bones. Osteoporosis is most common in elderly women, and it is for this reason that elderly women are the group most affected by compression fracture.

Less frequently, the vertebra may be weakened by a tumor or infection.

Treatments

For the most part, nonoperative treatments are recommended for compression fracture. These treatments include pain medications and modified physical activity. The doctor may recommend wearing a brace that helps support the back and prevents bending forward, and therefore removes pressure from the fractured vertebrae.

Vertebral fractures typically take about three months to fully heal. The doctor will order X-rays monthly to see how the fracture is healing.

If the fracture is caused by osteoporosis, treatment of the osteoporosis can help prevent additional fractures. Treatment may include calcium and vitamin D supplements, bisphosphonates, and weight bearing exercises.

Surgery may be necessary if the spine appears to be unstable. The surgeon may perform a vertebroplasty or a kyphoplasty. During these surgical procedures, the surgeon injects a cement mixture into the fractured bone to stabilize the fracture, treat pain, and prevent a spinal deformity from progressing.

In some cases, the surgeon may need to perform a spinal stabilization and fusion surgery to support the spine until the bone heals. During these procedures, the surgeon places a bone graft across the area of instability, allowing the vertebrae to fuse (grow together). The surgeon secures the spine with an internal fixation implant, using screws and rods, to hold the vertebrae in place while the bone heals.

The surgeon will tailor the treatment to each individual patient and specific presentation.

What Is a Spinal Compression Fracture?

November 19, 2021
|
Brain & Spine

Spine health is important especially if you are at risk for back problems — such as a compression fracture of the spine.

A few facts about the spine: The spine is the body’s main support structure. The average person is born with 33 individual bones called vertebrae that wrap around the spinal cord to protect and support it. Your vertebrae support most of the weight placed on your spine.

A spine compression fracture happens when too much stress is placed on one or more vertebra, causing it to collapse.

Spine compression fractures are serious, and they can cause painful or debilitating symptoms that interfere with your quality of life. Fortunately, treatment can help repair the damage and relieve symptoms.

Also known as vertebral compression fractures, spine compression fractures may be caused by actions that put increased force on the spine, such as lifting a heavy object or falling, in combination with weakened bone (osteopenia or osteoporosis).

“Bones tend to weaken with age, and conditions, such as osteoporosis, which causes bones to become brittle and weak, increase the risk of spine compression fractures,” says Robert Eastlack, MD, an orthopedic surgeon and head of spine surgery at Scripps Clinic. “If the bones are already weakened, something as simple as a sneeze or cough can result in vertebrae collapsing.”

Osteoporosis is more common in women than men, and so are spine compression fractures; they affect an estimated 40% of women age 80 and older.

Most spine compression fractures occur in the thoracic spine, which is the middle section of the spine. Small fractures may cause no symptoms or minor discomfort, but most fractures cause one or more of the following symptoms:

• Sudden back pain
• Back pain that worsens while standing or walking
• Limited mobility of the spine
• Loss of height over time
• Hunched posture over time

To diagnose a compression fracture of the spine, your doctor may use X-rays or other imaging tests such as MRI or CT scan. These tests also can help determine the best course of treatment.

Some spine compression fractures heal on their own with rest and time. Natural healing can take up to three months.

Over-the-counter pain medications, such as acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help with pain relief. If needed, your doctor may prescribe muscle relaxants or stronger pain medications. Additionally, a back brace may provide support and limit spinal movement while the fractured vertebrae heal.

If conservative treatments do not provide relief within six to eight weeks, or if the pain is severe and refractory to management with these modalities during that period of time, it may be time to consider surgery.

Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that repairs the fractured vertebra using a special type of bone cement.

“Guided by real-time X-ray images, we use a small needle to pass a balloon into the fracture to help restore the height of the collapsed bone, then inject the cement into the space created by the balloon,” says Dr. Eastlack. “In just a few minutes, the cement hardens, strengthening and stabilizing the bone to prevent it from collapsing again. ”

Also called balloon kyphoplasty, the procedure may be performed under local or general anesthesia. If local anesthesia is used, you will be awake during the surgery but will not feel pain, whereas you will be asleep during general anesthesia.

Kyphoplasty is generally safe, but like any type of surgery, it does have risks. These include bleeding, infection and anesthesia-related problems. Although rare, bone cement can also leak out of the bone and result in nerve aggravation or injury. Talk with your doctor about the risks and benefits of kyphoplasty to determine if it is the right treatment for you.

Your doctor can measure the strength or density of your bones using a dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA or DEXA) or bone densitometry test. This test can quickly and painlessly detect small changes in bone mass.

If your bones are losing density, you doctor may prescribe bone-strengthening medications known as bisphosphonates to help slow the rate of decline, or even restore bone density and quality, which can reduce the risk of future vertebral and other fragility fractures.

Related tags:

• Health and Wellness
• Brain & Spine

Compression fracture of the spine Rehabilitation center

Lack of proper treatment for a compression fracture of the spine can lead to serious complications. In Germany, therapy is carried out by sophisticated endoscopic methods – vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty, which are almost never used in Russia.

In a compression fracture (CM), the height of the vertebra is compressed. This injury is one of the most common spinal injuries.

CP often occurs with osteoporosis, characterized by weakening of the bone tissue of the vertebrae, which makes them unable to withstand even normal load. As a result, damage can occur when coughing, bending the back, lifting objects. Also, CP can be the result of an unsuccessful fall, impact, in which the spine experiences repeated overload.

Pathogenesis

The human spinal column consists of 33 vertebrae and performs a supporting function, gives mobility, and also protects the spinal cord. The cylindrical part of the vertebra is called the body, it is in it that damage occurs, attributable to a compression fracture. In osteoporosis, KP usually forms in the thoracic spine, and spinal cord injury is extremely rare.

In more severe injuries that result from car accidents or other injuries, the geometry of the spinal canal is disturbed due to the spinal canal and pressure is exerted on the nerve structures of the spinal cord. Such exposure leads to severe neurological symptoms, including complete paralysis of the organs controlled by the spinal cord below the fracture site.

Etiology

KP occurs when the vertical load on the vertebrae exceeds the limit value, either due to degenerative changes in the bone tissue or due to excessive traumatic load. In the first case, the fracture often occurs in the anterior part of the vertebra, in the second – in the back.

Osteoporosis is the most common cause of CP. In this disease, the bones can be so weakened that a simple tilt causes a fracture. Compression of the anterior part of the vertebra changes the geometry of the spine, resulting in a hump – kyphosis .

Parathyroid disorders can also cause brittle bones. This gland produces a hormone that controls calcium levels in the blood. With increased secretion, calcium is leached out of the bones, which leads to their weakening.

Spinal metastases in malignant tumors of other organs also cause weakening of the vertebrae and lead to a fracture.

Traumatic injury causes the most severe forms of compression fracture. It most often occurs when the spine is bent forward in an arc, and damage to the back of the vertebra occurs, which is dangerous for the spinal cord.

Symptoms

A compression fracture due to osteoporosis or other diseases that weaken the vertebrae causes little or no pain. Externally, the CP can be seen by the appearance of a hump. Reducing the height of the spinal column shortens the muscles of the back, which at the same time work more intensively, which leads to muscle fatigue and pain. Pain usually subsides by the end of the second week, but in some cases it can be acute.

Traumatic KP is much more painful: severe pain occurs in the back and radiates to the legs. If bone fragments enter the spinal canal during a fracture, paralysis or loss of sensation occurs. Spinal destabilization also occurs, which eventually leads to kyphosis and increases the risk of spinal cord injury.

Diagnosis

After examining the symptoms and medical history, an x-ray is taken, which clearly shows a compression fracture. X-ray is sufficient to confirm the diagnosis, but more precise studies are needed to assess associated lesions:

• CT can detect spinal instability. If a spinal cord injury is suspected, myelography is performed – contrast computed tomography.
• MRI is an alternative to CT and myelography.
• Bone scintigraphy is performed to study bone tissues, the presence and degree of degenerative changes are determined.

Treatment and rehabilitation

The bones of the damaged vertebra gradually heal (this takes about 2 months, provided that the load is minimized). However, in the absence of surgical intervention, this inevitably leads to deformation of the vertebra, which is reflected in the arch of the spine. Strong bending in the future can lead to many complications, therefore, in case of severe deformity, we recommend corrective surgeries, which are performed at the Medical Travel Center using modern endoscopic techniques. Read more about CP treatment in Germany.

If a traumatic spinal cord injury occurs, in addition to surgical treatment (in this case, extensive surgery may be required), rehabilitation after a spinal injury is necessary: ​​without professional recovery, the patient will not be able to return to a full-fledged lifestyle.

For treatment and rehabilitation after spinal surgery in Germany
, please call: +49 228 972 723 72 or fill out inquiry form .

Spinal compression fracture | Artromedcenter

A compression fracture of the spine affects the elderly or athletes. This type of pathology is formed due to excessive pressure on the vertebra at the time of its flexion. Most often, the anterior section is injured. Less commonly, complications may occur in the posterior spine. This dangerous type of injury is rare.
Most often, a compression fracture of the spine occurs at the locations of the 11th and 12th vertebrae and in the zone of the first lumbar. Injuries in other areas are also possible, but less common. Treatment tactics depend on the severity of the injury.

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Classification

Compression injury is classified according to severity. There are severe and uncomplicated compression fractures of the spine. Fractures without complications mean the absence of a threat to the patient’s spinal cord. Uncomplicated fracture is divided into:

• the height of the anterior spine is reduced by half;
• the height of the anterior section is reduced by more than half.

A severe type of compression fracture of the spine is dangerous for a person, because with a complicated injury, not only the vertebrae, but the entire structure is damaged. According to statistics, such a defect is about 5% of all diagnosed injuries of the musculoskeletal system.
The vertebrae in the cervical region undergo a difficult stage of injury, as they are the most vulnerable. Compression fractures of the spine also appear in the lumbar and thoracic regions. If the cervical vertebrae C1 and C2 are injured, this ends with the death of the victim.

Causes

Causes of a compression fracture of the spine:

• due to force on the axle. If, when falling from a height, a person lands on his legs or buttocks;
• with the latent development of osteoporosis. With this phenomenon, the probability of getting a compression fracture of the spine increases tenfold. It can occur even after minor power loads, since the cartilage tissue loses its strength due to the course of the pathology;
• infections affecting the bone structure. If a person has tuberculosis or osteomyelitis, the risk of compression injury increases;
• when weakening the bone structure. The injury occurs due to the strong compression of the vertebra from the weight of the superior. This results in a compression fracture. A similar process can also be formed as a result of the course of degenerative changes;
• car accident;
• neoplasms of benign origin. More often, a fracture is provoked by an aneurysmal cyst formed on cartilage tissue or a hemangioma;
• thyroid pathology. Diseases of this organ weaken the bones. This is due to an increase in the production and release of parathyroid hormone.

Trauma may occur due to a malignant neoplasm. The maternal tumor does not affect the bone tissue, fractures occur due to metastasis.
More often, hematogenous metastases form on the spine if the primary tumor is formed in the kidneys, bladder, prostate, breast and lung tissue. Less often, a metastasis on the spine is formed due to melanoma. However, this type of cancer with a secondary lesion on the vertebra is rarely diagnosed.
As for cancer that affects the vertebrae, several types of sarcoma and multiple myeloma are included.

Signs of a compression fracture

When a person receives this type of injury, the following symptoms will appear:

• The main symptom is a feeling of discomfort. Pain is disturbed in the lower back;
• with a complex fracture, a person takes a pose with the body tilted forward to alleviate their own condition;
• the patient’s legs become numb for a while;
• occurrence of tingling in the legs. Such symptoms may still signal compression of the roots;
• problems with urination. This may be urinary incontinence or difficulty with voluntary urination;
• if the fracture is formed due to weakening of the bones, such a phenomenon is often asymptomatic or gives off mild pain;
• the load on the muscle mass of the vertebra increases. The condition is accompanied by constant weakness and pain in the muscles for 2-3 weeks.

Compression fractures of the spine can cause severe back pain that spreads to the lower extremities. If the body of the spine is severely damaged during injury, parts of the bones will protrude into the spinal canal and cause compression of the spinal cord.
In this condition, in parallel with the main pathology, signs of neurology will also appear, expressed as follows:

• paralysis;
• paresis;
• sensitivity problems;
• violations of the normal functioning of the pelvic organs.

This contributes to the development of kyphosis.

Compression fracture diagnosis

The primary diagnosis is made on the basis of the patient’s complaints. However, its confirmation requires diagnostics using instrumental techniques. Now there are many ways of instrumental examination. Let’s take a look at the commonly used ones.

Radiography

X-ray examination is the standard procedure for suspected vertebral compression fractures. For accurate data, the doctor performs several lateral and anterior images. If gross instability is to be determined, additional flexion and extension images are taken.

Contrast tomograph

This diagnostic technique is considered invaluable in complicated fractures. With the help of CT, it is possible to detect even the slightest damage to the bones. This method is used to determine the degree of narrowing of the spinal canal.
A contrast tomograph is recommended for all individuals who experience a decrease in the height of the spine by more than 50%. This will determine if there are compression fractures of the spine in the posterior and middle sections of the vertebra.

MRI

MRI diagnostics is resorted to when there are suspicions of sensory and motor disorders in the legs. MRI is indicated if the patient is concerned about radicular pain. This type of examination is important because it provides maximum visualization of the spinal nerve endings.
For more accurate data, a magnetic resonance tomograph is supplemented with contrast. Radiation iodine helps to detect the slightest hemorrhages, neoplasms and infectious lesions.

Densitometry

Scanning, carried out by a double x-ray beam, allows you to identify all the slightest changes in the bone tissue. This method is indispensable for examining the arms, legs and spine.

PET Diagnostics

PET scanning is another modern and effective way to determine the disease. This technique is used in cases where it is necessary to determine what provoked a compression fracture of the spine – a malignant neoplasm with oncological genesis or the pathology is of benign origin.

Treatment of a compression fracture of the spine

To eliminate the consequences of a compression fracture, you need the help of a doctor. Surgical intervention is resorted to in isolated cases. The recovery process takes up to 6 months. During this period, the patient is required to strictly follow medical recommendations and wear a corset. Treatment of a compression fracture of the spine is performed according to the following algorithm.

Medical therapy

Therapeutic treatment consists in the use of painkillers. By controlling the resulting discomfort, you can easily move around and avoid immobilization.
A suitable anesthetic complex will be selected by the attending physician. He will prescribe the frequency of administration and the optimal dosage.
Corset
Treatment of a compression fracture of the spine is performed with the obligatory use of a rigid corset. This medical accessory is selected personally and solves a number of problems:

• reduces the number of movements;
• firmly fixes a broken vertebra;
• helps limit strenuous movements. These include bending and lifting.

With a corset, the back is securely fixed, which allows you to lead a full-fledged lifestyle. If the doctor has recommended wearing a corset, it is important to limit physical activity for the first 5 days. The best way would be to observe bed rest for this period.
Gradually begin to increase physical activity, so as not to provoke the development of muscle weakness and loss of bone density.
In parallel, drugs are prescribed to strengthen bone tissue. Typically, bisphosphonates are used. These drugs help strengthen bones and prevent further axial loads.

Therapeutic exercise

During the rehabilitation period, physical activity plays an important role. The recovery process with exercise therapy takes place in 4 stages:

• At the first stage, the patient’s task is to restore motor activity and muscle mass after a period of immobilization. In time, this stage takes 2 weeks;
• start the second stage of recovery one month after the fracture. The task of this period is to stimulate normal blood supply and increase physical activity;
• start the third stage 3 months after the injury. The complexity and frequency of classes gradually increase. It is allowed to connect exercises with weights. This will help restore the motor activity of the vertebral segments;
• at the final stage, the person completely resumes independence of movement. If all steps are completed correctly, the patient fully restores physical health.

Recovering from an injury is a long and laborious process. It often takes 1 year to fully recover from an injury.

Surgical treatment

Surgical elimination of the problem is resorted to in cases where a compression fracture of the spine with a complication is diagnosed. Open surgical manipulations are performed with complicated injuries, when parts of the bone rest against the spinal cord and create additional dangerous pressure.
Minimally invasive techniques are also used in cases where damage to bones and muscle mass is insignificant during surgical treatment. This reduces the risk of complications and speeds up the process of bone tissue repair.
Often, for a safe intervention, they use:

• vertebroplasty;
• kyphoplasty.

Vertebroplasty

The technique is used to reduce the severity of pain. Vertebroplasty has a strengthening effect on damaged cartilage tissue, which allows the victims to recover. This procedure is performed as follows:

• a needle is inserted under X-ray control;
• a cementing agent is injected through a needle into the damaged bone;
• component hardens after 15 minutes.

The cementing component fixes the damaged part of the bone and blocks its destruction. Such manipulation reduces pain.

Kyphoplasty

Another type of surgery Kyphoplasty strengthens damaged bone tissue, reduces discomfort and prevents the development of kyphosis in the future.

Forecasts

Most simple compression injuries respond successfully to therapy. The full recovery process takes no more than 6 months. The patient may be disturbed by back pain of moderate intensity during the entire recovery period.
After completion of treatment, the following phenomena are observed:

• People who have had a compression injury that is accompanied by neurological symptoms may experience minor pain at times. This is due to the fact that the deformed cartilage affects the spinal cord and root;
• in the considered pathology accompanied by infections of the bone tissue, the prognosis is also overwhelmingly favorable. Persons who have received a fracture due to purulent osteomyelitis can count on high chances of recovery, provided timely treatment;
• if the fracture occurred against the background of pierced tuberculosis, unfortunately, the prognosis is unfavorable. Such patients receive a disability.

As for the fracture caused by the latent course of osteoporosis, after proper therapy, the patient’s condition stabilizes for 2 months.