Common Causes of Compression Fractures

Compression fractures are a medical condition that can be caused by a variety of factors. They occur when a vertebra in the spine collapses or is compressed due to a force that the bone cannot withstand. This can cause significant pain and discomfort, and may even lead to long-term spinal problems.

Nevada Neurosurgeon Dr. Sina Rajamand of Battle Born Brain and Spine reviews some of the most common causes of compression fractures, along with their symptoms and treatment options.

Osteoporosis

• Osteoporosis is a condition in which bones become brittle and weak due to a loss of minerals, such as calcium, that make up the bone structure. This condition can cause compression fractures because the bones are not strong enough to withstand the normal stresses placed on them.
• Symptoms of osteoporosis-related compression fractures include back pain, loss of height and a stooped posture. Treatment may involve medications to increase bone density, physical therapy and lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet and regular exercise.

Trauma

• Trauma or injury to the spine can cause compression fractures. This can occur from a fall, car accident or other physical trauma. The force of the impact can be enough to cause a vertebra to collapse or become compressed.
• Symptoms of trauma-related compression fractures may include sudden back pain, difficulty standing or walking and muscle spasms. Treatment may involve pain management, rest and physical therapy.

Cancer

• Cancer that has spread to the spine can also cause compression fractures. This is because cancer cells can weaken the bones and cause them to become brittle and prone to fracture.
• Symptoms of cancer-related compression fractures may include back pain that is worse at night, numbness or tingling in the limbs and weakness in the legs. Treatment may involve radiation therapy, chemotherapy and pain management.

Spinal Infections

• Infections that affect the spine can also cause compression fractures. This can occur when bacteria reach the spine through the bloodstream or after surgery.
• Symptoms of infection-related compression fractures may include fever, chills and increased pain at the site of the fracture. Treatment may involve antibiotics, rest and physical therapy.

Spinal Tumors

• Tumors that develop in the spine can also cause compression fractures. This is because the tumor can press on the vertebrae, causing them to become compressed or collapse.
• Symptoms of tumor-related compression fractures may include back pain, numbness or tingling in the limbs and weakness or paralysis in the legs. Treatment may involve surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy.

Reno, NV, Compression Fracture Treatment

Compression fractures can be caused by a variety of factors, including osteoporosis, trauma, cancer, spinal infections and tumors. The symptoms and treatment options may vary depending on the underlying cause of the fracture. Some compression fractures require surgical treatment by a talented neurosurgeon like Dr. Rajamand. If you are experiencing back pain or other symptoms, it is important to schedule an exam and consultation so we can determine the cause of your symptoms and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

Contact Battle Born Brain and Spine today to schedule a consultation.