Spine Fracture Management

Spine Fracture Management

A spinal fracture (vertebral compression fracture) occurs when one of the bones in the spine fractures or collapses as a result of bone loss. Primary osteoporosis and menopause aren’t the only culprits when it comes to bone loss. Cancer, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hyperthyroidism, and long-term use of corticosteroids also cause loss of bone mass and increase your risk for fracture.

SYMPTOMS

Back pain is a signal that something is wrong. Sudden onset of pain or a chronic, dull ache in your back could indicate that a spinal fracture has occurred. If you have back pain that lasts for more than several days, schedule a visit with your doctor so that the cause of your back pain can be determined and treated.

Spinal fractures can cause the bones in your spine to collapse, and as a result, height loss can occur. Multiple spinal fractures can also cause postural changes or a dowager’s hump. If you’ve lost height or you have a dowager's hump, you may have spinal fractures.