Spinal Compression Fracture

Back aches and pains can be a normal sign of aging or a sign that small fractures are happening in your spine. Compression fractures are often caused by bone-thinning called osteoporosis and is most common in post- menopausal women. When bones are brittle, everyday activities can trigger minor spinal compression fractures. When you bend to lift an object, trip on a rock, or slip on a carpet, you can put your spinal bones at risk of fracture. After a number of small compression fractures, your body begins to show the effects. These small fractures can lead to the vertebra collapsing and a Spinal Compression Fracture.

These tiny fractures can permanently alter the strength and shape of the spine. You lose height because your spine is shorter. Most compression fractures occur in the front of the vertebra, which causes the front part of the bone to collapse creating a wedge-shaped vertebra. The back of the bone is unchanged because it’s made of harder bone. This creates a stooped look called Kyphosis.

The biggest treatment for this is to treat the underlying cause which is Osteoporosis. There are many different treatments available and most Rheumatologists would try several to see what is best tolerated.

Last modified: October 22, 2019