The most common cause of a spinal compression fracture is osteoporosis. As we age our bones become weaker, making it easier for them to break. The result of this happening in the bones of the spine is referred to as a spinal compression fracture. Other terms include vertebral fracture, wedge fracture, or osteoporotic fracture. Defined, a spinal compression fracture occurs when one or more vertebrae of the spine decreases 15% to 20% in height due to fracture.
The majority of compression fractures occur in the lower vertebrae of the lower back at T9, T10, T11, and T12. Approximately 700,000 people in the United States experience a spinal compression each year.
Types of Spinal Compression Fractures
Wedge Fracture This is the most common compression fracture. It is called a wedge fracture because for the majority of patients it happens in the front section of the vertebra. The bone collapses in the front of the spine, and the back of the bone keeps the same height, creating a wedge shape to the bone.
Crush Fracture When both the front and the back of the vertebra breaks it is referred to as a crush fracture.
Burst Fracture This type of fracture is the result of a vertebra that fractures in both the front and back, and results in a height loss of both the front and back of the bone. A burst fracture can cause spinal deformities and neurologic issues.
Symptoms of a Spinal Compression Fracture
An untreated spinal compression fracture can result in a range of symptoms, including:
• Acute back pain that leads to chronic pain
• Spinal deformity
• Height loss
• Compression of internal organs
• Inability to perform daily tasks due to pain
Treating Spinal Compression Fractures in Naples, Florida
Kyphoplasty procedures have proven successful for the treatment of spinal compression fractures. The procedure returns the fractured vertebrae to their original height.
If you are suffering from back pain in Naples, Florida and the surrounding area consult with your primary physician and ask them if your pain may be the result of a spinal compression fracture. Many patients are often misdiagnosed with general back pain or muscle strain. A MRI scan is required to determine the true cause of your back pain.
The experienced neurosurgery team of Neuroscience and Spine Associates can perform both your MRI scan and Kyphoplasty procedure.
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