Spinal Compression Fractures

Collapse of one or more vertebral bodies can cause severe pain and deformity. They can result from high energy trauma but osteoporosis (weakening of bone) is a leading cause, even with only routine daily activities.

What are the symptoms?

Patients typically complain of severe back pain at the site of the compression fracture and a leaning forward posture that results in a hunched appearance, loss of height and increased belly fold.

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If there are any symptoms of weakness, numbness or red flag signs, then urgent medical attention should be sought.

Treatments

Adequate painkillers and protected / assisted movement are key in the early days. The pain and lack of mobility usually improves with time but on occasions, the compression does not heal and may require treatment in the form of kyphoplasty or vertebroplasty (injection of cement in to the collapsed bone to help stabilise it and prevent further collapse).