Compression fractures in the spine can be caused by trauma or conditions like cancer and osteoporosis. They are difficult to diagnose and treat, with surgery sometimes necessary. Prevention through exercise and avoiding falls is crucial. Back pain should be checked by a doctor to rule out a compression fracture.
A spinal compression fracture, more commonly called a compression fracture, is an injury to the vertebrae caused by trauma or complications from conditions such as cancer and osteoporosis that can weaken the bones in the spine. Compression fractures are notoriously difficult to treat, although a variety of surgical techniques to treat the problem began to emerge in the early 21st century. The condition can also sometimes be difficult to diagnose, as symptoms can suggest other types of injuries.
Falls and serious accidents are two common causes of compression fractures, as they place great strain on the spine. Many patients with compression fractures also suffer from osteoporosis or other conditions that weaken the spine. Symptoms of a compression fracture include back pain, which may not always be localized to the fracture site, along with numbness where the compression fracture pinches nerves. In severe cases, the patient may experience incontinence.
X-rays and other medical imaging techniques are used to identify a compression fracture. Depending on the location and severity of the fracture, different treatment plans may be recommended. The most basic is to rest at home and embark on a light stretching and exercise program designed to strengthen your back as the fracture heals. In other cases, surgery to treat the compression fracture may be recommended, especially if the fracture pinches nerves or leads to incontinence.
Many doctors say the best treatment for a compression fracture is prevention. Eating plenty of calcium and stretching to exercise and strengthen your back is extremely important. For older people or those with limited range of motion, gentle yoga and other techniques can be used to improve overall muscle tone and strength. People should also try to avoid falls; older people may want to install non-slip rails and floors to help with this.
Back pain isn’t always associated with a compression fracture, but seeing a doctor about back pain is a great idea. In some cases, a doctor may simply diagnose strain, recommending rest and training in proper moving and lifting techniques to avoid such strain in the future. In other cases, a doctor may decide that a patient is at risk for a compression fracture, in which case more diagnostic tests may be needed to diagnose it. Untreated compression fractures can cause medical complications, so it’s important to seek treatment.
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