Vertebral Compression Fractures

This blog entry will answer some common questions asked about vertebral compression fractures.

What exactly is a vertebral compression fracture?
A vertebral compression fracture is where a bone or bones in the spine fracture/break.

What causes a vertebral compression fracture?
A vertebral compression fracture can be caused by severe trauma. For example an automobile accident or a fall from extreme height. In older individuals the most common cause is if from osteoporosis. Additionally, cancer can also precipitate a vertebral compression fracture. Generally, a vertebral compression fracture is of the lower, back (lumbar spine).

Are vertebral compression fractures common?
It is estimated that osteoporosis will result in approximately 1.5 fractures annually. Although you hear more about hip fractures, the most common fracture as a result of osteoporosis is a vertebral fracture. It is estimated that more than half of the fractures as a result of osteoporosis are vertebral compression fractures, over 700k annually.

What are the symptoms of a vertebral compression fracture?
The most common symptom is sudden onset back pain that becomes persistent. If the vertebral compression fracture is the result of osteoporosis, this fracture and accompanying pain can be caused by normal activities and not the result of trauma; i.e. a fall. Other symptoms include back pain that is more severe when standing or walking, limited spinal mobility and height loss or a forward stooped posture (Dowager’s hump).

How are vertebral compression fractures diagnosed?
Vertebral compression fractures are diagnosed with an X-ray. If there is a spinal fracture on the X-ray, the physician may order a CT-scan to determine the extent of the fracture or an MRI – depending upon the patient’s symptoms.