What is Compression Fracture? A Clear and Simple Guide

QI Spine Clinic, 2 days ago

Compression Fracture in Spine

Causes of Compression Fractures

• Osteoporosis: It is one of the most common causes of compression fracture. Osteoporosis is a condition in which the bones develop pores due to lack of calcium, Vitamin D, ageing, or any other cause. This makes the bones fragile and brittle. Due to this, even mild work like bending and lifting can lead to vertebral compression. Osteoporosis-related fractures are most common in older adults as their bones become weak over time. 

• Ageing of Vertebral Discs: Vertebral discs are present in between each vertebra to provide strength and cushioning. As we age, these discs wear down, making the bones less cushioned. This makes the spine more vulnerable to wear and tear, even without osteoporosis. 

• Injury or Trauma: Injuries such as a fall, accident, or sports injury can also lead to a Spinal Fracture. Young individuals and sports persons are more prone to this kind of injury as even a single impact can cause vertebrae to collapse. 

• Cancer: Certain types of cancer, when they spread to the bones, can make the vertebrae weak, which increases the risk of fractures. It can be identified by your healthcare provider if you have a history of cancer.

• Infections: Although not common, infections in the spine can also cause it. By weakening the vertebrae, the spine can be vulnerable to these fractures. 

Symptoms of Compression Fracture

• Back Pain: One of the major signs of compression fracture is sudden, sharp, or aching pain in the middle or lower back. Which gets worse while standing, bending, or walking. Early recognition is necessary after an injury. 

• Loss of Height: It sounds a bit bizarre, but severe fractures can cause loss in height. You can notice yourself getting shorter. This can also lead to hunched back, a condition widely known as Kyphosis. 

• Digestive Problems: Although not a direct symptom, these fractures make you less active, leading to digestive issues like constipation, diarrhoea, or loss of appetite. Seek medical help if you feel this condition with other major symptoms. 

• Limited Mobility: It becomes hard to move around in this condition. Bending, twisting, or even sitting for a long time can become uncomfortable or painful, which leads to limited mobility.  

• Numbness in the Back: The fractures cause pressure near the spine’s nerves, leading to a tingling sensation in the back and even numbness in arms and legs other than the back. 

Treatment of Compression Fracture

Non-Invasive Treatments:

• Rest: Although prolonged bed rest may cause pain to get worse, you may be advised to rest for a short period. It can help to reduce pain. Stay active and within your comfort zone. 
• Pain Killers: Self-medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help in pain management. Your doctor may prescribe stronger medications if the pain gets worse. 
• Braces: In some cases, a doctor may prescribe a black brace that helps support and stabilise the spine with other treatments. 
• Physical Therapy: Physical therapies are the best for improving flexibility and strengthening the back muscles without any medication. This will also help prevent future fractures.

Surgical or Invasive Treatment:

• Vertebroplasty or Kyphoplasty: These are minimally invasive. In vertebroplasty, the cement is instilled to stabilise the fractured part of the vertebrae. The kyphoplasty balloons gently expand the collapsed vertebra and restore the usual height. Both aim at pain relief and restoration of spinal stability. 
• Spinal Fusion: If multiple pieces affect the vertebrae in a specific region of the spine, then surgery would involve the fusion of spinal segments. Fusing is essentially the process of fusing two or more of the vertebrae to restrict movement; using rods or screws of metal, stability would be created in the long run.

Identifying The Root Cause:

Final Thoughts