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Osteoporosis May Cause Spinal Compression Fractures

Oct 29, 2019
Osteoporosis May Cause Spinal Compression Fractures
Everyone has a higher risk of osteoporosis as they age, and it’s a common complaint that Integrated Pain Consultants’ Dr. Nikesh Seth treats. It’s also important to bear in mind that osteoporosis increases your odds of suffering spine pain.....

Everyone has a higher risk of osteoporosis as they age, and it’s a common complaint that Integrated Pain Consultants’ Dr. Nikesh Seth treats. It’s also important to bear in mind that osteoporosis increases your odds of suffering spine pain from injuries such as spinal compression fractures. A spinal compression fracture is a break in the vertebral body, or the part of the bony spine that stacks on top of each other. It’s part of the spinal column and is particularly vulnerable when osteoporosis is present.

Weakening the Spine

Osteoporosis is a disease where the mineral in the bones slowly decreases. In severe cases of osteoporosis, the bones become very weak and prone to break. There are ways to help maintain bone mineral density, such as consuming enough calcium and magnesium as well as prioritizing weight-bearing exercises (such as walking downhill). However, the vast majority of people will experience some type of bone mineral density loss with age.

There are many reasons a person may suffer a spinal compression fracture. It can happen in a car accident at any age, or even a sneeze can cause a fracture in elderly patients. When a fracture does occur, it is very important to not bend or twist (otherwise you might cause additional injuries).

Diagnosing a spinal compression fracture requires an X-ray to determine the severity of the fracture and exact location. Rest and sometimes wearing a brace are the most common “prescriptions” for these fractures. While allowing the fracture time to heal is how the break is treated, it’s also important to treat the pain. Spinal fracture pain can vary from mild to severe, but there are treatments beyond medication management available. From joint injections to radiofrequency ablation, a wide range of procedures including Kyphotplasty can help ensure your comfort while you heal.

Schedule Your Comprehensive Consultation

If you have any type of back pain, it’s important to work closely with a pain specialist for the best and most comfortable outcome. Schedule a detailed evaluation by calling Integrated Pain Consultants today at 480-626-2552.