Vertebral compression fracture
What is a vertebral compression fracture?
A vertebral compression fracture is a fracture of the spine caused by external impact. In older people with advanced osteoporosis, bone tissue is greatly weakened, so a minor impact such as a sneeze, not only a fall, can cause a vertebral compression fracture. Older adults should take care.
Once a compression fracture occurs the back becomes stooped, and because fractures recur over a long period, the back can bend further and further.
Symptoms
- 1
- Back pain so severe you cannot move.
- 2
- Pain worsens on getting up from lying down or walking.
- 3
- The back weakens and the body gradually stoops forward.
- 4
- Pain radiates to the chest, lower abdomen and buttocks.
View treatment details
Non-surgical Treatment
Surgical Treatment
In practice, fewer than 10% of disc patients undergo surgery. Surgical treatment is carefully considered when symptoms do not improve with conservative treatment, or when the herniated disc presses severely on the nerve and causes extreme pain or paralysis.