What are vertebral compression fractures?

Vertebral compression fractures (VCF) may occur at any age, although it is most common in older individuals with osteoarthritis or women that are postmenopausal. VCF occurs when the vertebra collapses, causing the bone to crack or fracture. However, injuries, acute trauma to the spine, slip and falls, or cancer could cause spinal fractures or VCF. Any part of the spine can be affected by vertebral compression fractures. This condition often causes chronic pain, disfigurement, and reduced height as the condition worsens.

There are three types of vertebral compression fractures:

• Wedge: The fracture occurs on the front side of the vertebra. Nearly half of all vertebral compression fractures are wedge-shaped.
• Crush: Occurs when the entire vertebrae is fractured, resulting in bone rubbing on bone.
• Burst: The fracture results in tiny bone fragments spreading in different directions. This type of VCF usually results in prompt medical attention.

Compression fractures can either be stable, meaning the bone remains in place, or unstable, which is when the bone pieces move and may affect surrounding nerves or other soft tissue.

Symptoms of Vertebral Compression Fractures

You may have a vertebral compression fracture if you experience any of the following:

• Sudden onset of back pain that worsens with movement but improves when resting.
• Limited mobility or difficulty walking, standing, or moving your spine to bend or twist.
• Tingling or numbness in your back.
• Tenderness in your spine where pain occurs.
• Back muscle weakness or spasms.

Additionally, if you have suffered from a back injury that resulted in acute pain, you should seek medical attention immediately to rule out serious conditions or spinal fractures.

How are vertebral compression fractures treated?

In some cases, VCF can be treated with rest, physical therapy, braces, and anti-inflammatories. However, when chronic pain occurs, medical intervention may be needed. At Midsouth Spine & Pain Associates, we offer minimally invasive pain-relieving treatments to help those suffering from vertebral compression fracture pain. Our outpatient procedures mean no hospital stays and little to no recovery to get back to your daily routine.

Vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty are common procedures used to reduce pain associated with VCF. The goal of these minimally invasive procedures is to help stabilize the affected vertebra using a bone cement. A small incision is made at the targeted area, and then a balloon is inserted and inflated to recreate the natural space between the vertebrae. Then, bone cement is placed to secure the bone’s new position, and the balloon is deflated and then removed. Most individuals report little discomfort afterward, following a few days of rest. And there are rarely risks or complications associated with this treatment.

Treating Vertebral Compression Fracture Pain in Southwest Tennessee and North Mississippi, including Tupelo, MS and Jackson, TN

Vertebral compression fractures may heal with minimal treatment, although in some cases, chronic pain may develop, and conservative treatments may no longer provide the relief that you seek. At Midsouth Spine & Pain Associates, our pain management doctors in Corinth offer outpatient treatments that are minimally invasive to help manage chronic back pain. To learn more about VCF or find out about our pain management treatments near you, call (662) 284-8565.