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Vertebral Compression Fractures

NovaSpine Pain Institute -  - Pain Management

NovaSpine Pain Institute

Pain Management in Sun City, Sun City West, Glendale and Gilbert, Arizona

Vertebral compression fractures can cause severe pain and make it difficult for you to handle your day-to-day activities. Traditionally, these types of fractures are treated with changes in your activity. If your pain is severe, the expert team at NovaSpine Pain Institute in Sun City West, Sun City, Gilbert, and Glendale, Arizona, offers a minimally invasive surgery that can reduce your pain and stabilize your fracture. Call the office or use the online contact form today to learn more about your treatment options for a vertebral compression fracture.

Vertebral Compression Fractures Q & A

What are vertebral compression fractures?

Vertebral compression fractures refer to collapsing or breaking a vertebra in your spine. The break often causes immediate pain that gets worse with activity. 

You can experience a vertebral compression fracture anywhere along your spine, but they are most often seen in the thoracic spine (upper back).

In addition to causing pain, the fracture can also affect spinal height and lead to spinal deformities. If you suspect you have a vertebral compression fracture, you should seek medical care right away.

What causes a vertebral compression fracture?

You can suffer a vertebral compression fracture after a fall or car accident. However, these fractures are most often seen in older adults with osteoporosis, a serious bone condition that causes your bones to weaken and become more susceptible to breaking.

If you have osteoporosis, you can develop a vertebral compression fracture while engaging in normal activities like stepping out of the shower or even sneezing.

How are vertebral compression fractures diagnosed?

Diagnostic imaging like X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans are used to diagnose a vertebral compression fracture. 

When discussing your treatment options at NovaSpine Pain Institute, the team will review your symptoms and medical history and do a physical exam. Your doctor will probably request additional diagnostic tests to further evaluate your spine and determine the best course of action.

How are vertebral compression fractures treated?

Your doctor at NovaSpine Pain Institute develops individualized treatment plans to manage your vertebral compression fracture. 

Treatment will depend on the severity of your symptoms and your medical history. In some cases, the team will suggest rest, bracing, and medication to treat your fracture.

If your pain is severe, the team at NovaSpine Pain Institute could suggest kyphoplasty/vertebroplasty, a minimally invasive procedure performed at the office.

During the procedure, your doctor places a special needle into the compressed vertebra. Your doctor creates a space with a medical balloon, then fills the space with bone cement. The bone cement stabilizes your fracture. You could experience a significant reduction or full elimination of your pain.

The minimally invasive procedure is done under anesthesia to reduce discomfort. While you could experience some muscle spasms and mild pain following the procedure, most patients can treat these pain symptoms with over-the-counter pain medication.

For a consultation to discuss your treatment options, call NovaSpine Pain Institute or use the online contact form.