![]() If non-surgical treatment is ineffective or damage is more severe, spine surgery may be recommended. The extra stability and lack of movement may also aid in reducing pain. Muscle relaxants may also be prescribed.Ī back brace can be used to provide spinal stability and limit any sudden or extreme motion in the spinal area. Non-steroidal inflammatory drugs such as Aleve (naproxen sodium) or ibuprofen can aid in reducing pain. There are a variety of treatment options available depending on the cause and severity of the condition. If a spinal compression fracture is confirmed, immediate treatment is essential in reducing the risk of further damage. Small changes in the bone mass can also be determined. An MRI is mainly used to provide detailed images of the soft tissues in the surrounding area.Ī bone density test is used to measure calcium and other minerals in the bones and is the most accurate way to determine if osteoporosis is present in the spine. With this scan, the nerve roots, spinal cord, and possible tumors can be identified and examined. This includes a spinal tap where a dye is inserted into the spine to increase detail in the produced images.Īn MRI scan forms a three-dimensional image of the back. A myelogram may also be completed with a CAT or CT scan. Any abnormalities in bone alignment, disc degeneration, or bone spurs in the spinal cord or nerves can be identified.Ī CAT or CT scan can help determine the shape and size of the spinal canal and the structures surrounding it. This may be used to outline the joints and take note of the structure of the vertebrae. These scans can help to confirm a diagnosis as well as predict prognosis to determine the best course of treatment.Īn X-ray is used to take a picture of the bones in the spine. The exam will include questions regarding symptoms, performing certain movements to gauge pain, and feeling for tenderness in the vertebral body near the spinal cord.įollowing a physical exam, further scans may be ordered to provide a more detailed view of the area. Typically, this process will begin with a physical exam. If a spinal compression fracture is suspected, there are a number of ways a diagnosis can be reached. Diagnosis & Treatment Methods of Diagnosis If you suspect a spinal fracture, it’s important to see a doctor to prevent potential spinal deformity. However, in some cases, a fracture can be the first sign of cancer.įollowing a spinal compression fracture, the risk of future fractures greatly increases, even if symptoms are minor. Certain types of cancer are monitored for spinal fractures-myeloma and lymphoma being the most common. Smoking is known to be connected to a loss in bone thickness.Ĭancer that has spread to the bones can also put you at risk for compression fractures.Women who experience menopause before the age of 50 are at risk for osteoporosis. Slim women are more likely to develop osteoporosis due to fragile bone structure. ![]() Women over the age of 50 are at a higher risk. White and Asian women are at a higher risk for osteoporosis due to a genetic predisposition. Osteoporosis is the most common risk factor for spinal compression fractures. There are two main risk factors for compression fractures of the spine: However, while women are more susceptible to spinal fractures, they are an important health concern for older men as well. According to AANS, approximately 25% of postmenopausal women are affected by spinal compression fractures with 40% of women over the age of 80 affected. Risk Factors for Spinal Compression FracturesĪs we age, the likelihood of developing this condition rises, especially among women due to increased risk for osteoporosis. This causes a wedge-like curvature of the spine leading to a stooped posture. Also called kyphosis, dowager's hump occurs when the back of the vertebra remains stable while the front portion erodes. Height loss can occur as the spine compresses and becomes shorter.ĭowager’s Hump. After a number of compression fractures, the shape of the spine can change. Pain may intensify when walking or standing and decrease when lying down. Symptoms of a Spinal Compression FractureĬommon symptoms of a spinal compression fracture include:īack pain that has a sudden onset. These “everyday events” can range from lifting an object to something as simple as sneezing or coughing. The concurrent weakening of these structures leaves the spine vulnerable to injury as the spinal vertebrae are not strong enough to carry the weight of everyday events. Over time, the vertebral discs dry out and lose strength while the bone of the vertebrae becomes porous and brittle. Vertebral compression fractures are typically the result of osteoporosis. How Do Spinal Compression Fractures Happen? Baltimore at Quarry Lake Physical Therapy.
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