Issue 15.14
A vertebral compression fracture is a condition in which the vertebral body in the spine collapses, leading to severe pain and deformity. Often times the pain is so severe that patients will have a difficult time standing, walking or even rolling over in bed. There are over 600,000 vertebral body compression fractures in the United States each year, many of which go untreated for weeks or months.
Osteoporosis is the most common cause of this condition, affecting an estimated 10 million Americans. An osteoporotic fracture occurs every three seconds in the United States. In addition, 34 million Americans have low bone mass, leaving these individuals with a higher risk of fracture.
Osteoporosis is not the only cause for a vertebral compression fracture. Other causes include severe trauma such as a car accident or sports injury, a metastatic tumor, and other degenerative processes.
In many cases, a compression fracture can lead to kyphosis. This condition is when the spine has a curvature to its design, causing a bowing or rounding of the back. People with kyphosis often have a hunchback or a dramatic slouching posture. Treating vertebral body compression fractures early can reduce the overall compression deformity and reduce pain.
After a thorough examination, imaging procedures (bone density test, CT scan, MRI scan), and a review of the patient’s medical history, a physician can determine whether nonsurgical intervention can improve the patient’s condition. For conservative treatment, a back brace may be recommended to help restore posture and decrease the risk of more fractures. Physical therapy may be supplemented with medication therapy to relieve bone pain and inflammation.
If conventional measures show little improvements, advanced treatment is a possibility. One of the best surgical treatments for a vertebral compression fracture is a Kyphoplasty. During this minimally invasive surgery, the physician attempts to restore the height of the vertebral body, as well as injects a bone cement into the vertebral body to stabilize the fracture, reduce pain and reduce the risk of further height loss. The procedure is performed through one or two 3mm incisions, and takes about 30-60 minutes to perform. Patients are able to go home within several hours. Pain relief can be immediate.
The medical staff at Southwest Spine and Pain Center practice precision and expertise in all areas of their work. From administering injections to handling advanced spine treatments, our team is committed to providing compassion and hope to patients suffering from pain.
Dr. Rick Obray can be reached at 435-656-2424.