Osteoporotic Compression Fracture
Osteoporotic compression fractures are breaks in the bone resulting from poor bone mineral density. If it is an isolated injury to the front of the spinal column, then the spine is considered stable and able to heal on its own. If the injury involves the middle or back of the spinal column as well as the front, it can be unstable and require surgery to heal and stabilize the spine.
What’s in this section?
Signs and symptoms
Common symptoms of osteoporotic compression fractures include:
- Back pain at the fracture site that is
- Made worse with movement
- Made better with rest or lying down
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of an osteoporotic compression fracture starts with a physical exam and medical history. Other procedures and tests may be needed to diagnose the fracture, including bone scans, x-rays , computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and bone density testing.
Treatment options
Treatment options depend on the severity and location of the fracture:
- Rest
- Medication
- Brace
- Vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty
Request an appointment online and we will guide you through the next steps.