Compression Fracture

The bones in the body become brittle and more fragile with age, including the vertebrae in the spine. When vertebrae lose bone density due to osteoporosis or other factors, they are more likely to fracture. The pressure put on the spine from the body can damage and weaken vertebrae, causing a compression fracture. Our team at Medici Orthopaedics & Spine offers a variety of treatment options to reduce pain and improve mobility for patients with spinal compression fractures.

When a compression fracture occurs, the vertebra usually breaks in the front side, but not the back. This causes a “wedge,” or triangular shape, that decreases the height of the vertebra in the front. Wedge compression fractures tend to be stable but cause other pain and health issues. Other types of compression fractures can affect the entire vertebrae and cause spine instability. Almost all compression fractures occur in the thoracic or lumbar regions of the spine. Rarely, they occur in the cervical or neck area.

Symptoms of Compression Fractures

Compression fractions usually cause acute pain, which can lead to chronic back pain if not treated. Other symptoms and health issues caused by compression fractures include:

• Spine instability
• Nerve compression
• Loss of height
• Curved or humped spine
• Pressure on or crowding of internal organs

Compression fractures are common. Some people with stable wedge fractures may have minimal symptoms, while others suffer chronic pain and a deformity of the spine. At Medici Orthopaedics & Spine, we can create a personalized treatment plan for those with compression fractures, based on the extent of damage and their symptoms. We offer minimally and non-invasive treatments to reduce chronic pain and improve the stability of the spine.

If you have suffered a compression fracture that is causing you chronic pain or other health issues, contact Medici Orthopaedics & Spine today to schedule your consultation. We will devise a treatment plan to improve your quality of life and health.

‍