Fractures occur when a vertebra in the spine collapses or becomes compressed due to weakened bone density or trauma.
Here are comprehensive details about vertebral compression fractures presented in bullet points:
Causes
Vertebral compression fractures are often due to osteoporosis weakening bones, making them prone to fractures from minor stress. Trauma, such as falls or accidents, and conditions like cancer metastasis to the spine or osteomalacia can also lead to these fractures.
Risk Factors
- Advanced age, as bone density naturally decreases with age.
- Female gender, as women are more likely to develop osteoporosis.
- History of previous fractures.
- Use of corticosteroid medications, which can weaken bones.
- Low body weight
- Family history of osteoporosis or fractures.
Symptoms
- Sudden back pain onset may worsen with movement or when standing.
- Pain that improves when lying down.
- Loss of height over time (kyphosis or “dowager’s hump”).
- Limited spinal mobility.
Neurological symptoms if the fracture affects spinal nerves.
Diagnosis
- Clinical evaluation, medical history, and physical examination.
- Imaging tests: X-rays, CT scans, or MRI to confirm the extent of the fracture.
- Bone density testing (DEXA scan) to assess bone strength and diagnose osteoporosis
Treatment Options
Often recommended for stable fractures and includes pain management with medications, rest, and physical therapy to improve spinal strength and mobility.
Minimally invasive procedures
- Vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty procedures stabilize fractured vertebrae and alleviate pain by injecting bone cement.
- Surgery: Reserved for severe fractures that do not respond to conservative treatments or when there is spinal instability requiring stabilization.
Prevention
- Maintain calcium and vitamin D intake to support bone health.
- Regular weight-bearing exercise to strengthen bones.
- Fall prevention strategies, including home safety modifications and balance exercises.
- Osteoporosis screening and management, especially for high-risk individuals.
Prevent bone fractures by maintaining calcium and vitamin D intake, doing weight-bearing exercises, implementing fall prevention strategies, and managing osteoporosis risks through screening and treatment.
