How Does Osteoporosis Cause Compression Fractures?

Compression fractures of the spine can be incredibly painful and require specialized care. A leading cause of compression fractures is weakened spinal bones due to loss of density or osteoporosis.

At CHOICE Pain & Rehabilitation Center, with multiple locations in Maryland and Delaware, our rehabilitation specialists can evaluate your bone density, help you slow the progression of osteoporosis, and treat back pain caused by compression fractures.

Osteoporosis

You typically reach peak bone mass by age 30, as your body regenerates bone faster than it loses density. After 30, that reverses, and you slowly lose bone mass for the rest of your life.

Osteoporosis is an extreme loss of bone density and is most common in older women, although men can also experience it. Hormonal changes due to menopause and thyroid issues can be major contributing factors.

Osteoporosis may have a hereditary component. If your mom or dad had compression fractures or broke their hip, there’s a good chance that they had osteoporosis and that you'll develop it too as you age.

Compression fractures

Compression fractures are breaks in the bones of the spine, usually at the front of the vertebrae. These breaks can cause you to stoop forward and experience severe pain as the nerves in your spine are pinched.

Osteoporosis is the most likely cause of vertebral fractures. The weakened bone is more likely to chip, crack, and break due to loss of bone mass. The actual fracture can result from trauma, such as a fall or car crash, or something as simple as bending over to pick up something.

Many people who experience one compression fracture usually experience more vertebral breaks if swift action isn’t taken to protect their spine. Bone density testing, X-rays, CAT scans, and MRIs can diagnose compression fractures due to osteoporosis.

Treating vertebral compression fractures

There are both nonsurgical and surgical treatments for compression fractures. At CHOICE Pain & Rehabilitation Center, we focus on nonsurgical options.

Nonsurgical treatments

We may recommend any of the following:

Rest
Pain medication
Bracing
Physical therapy
Activity modification

If you need surgical intervention, we can refer you to a specialist in spinal surgery.

Surgical treatments

Surgical options for treating compression fractures include:

Vertebroplasty
Kyphoplasty
Spinal fusion

With treatment to strengthen and stabilize the spine and steps to slow down bone loss, you can regain mobility and enjoy significant pain relief.

To learn more about osteoporosis and compression fractures, schedule an appointment at CHOICE Pain & Rehabilitation Center today by calling the location nearest you, or request an appointment online.