TREATMENT

Most compression fractures are detected elderly patients who have osteoporosis. These fractures usually are not associated with neurological complications. In these individuals the osteoporosis is typically treated with prescription medications and calcium supplements. Sometime the pain associated with a compression fracture is treated with medication such as an anti-inflammatory and/or a pain killer. A back brace may be recommended to reduce stress on the area and to help stabilize the involved region during the healing process. Long term bracing may lead to further thinning of bone and weakening and atrophy of supportive tissues.

Surgery is rarely required to treat a compression fracture. There is a relatively new, minimally invasive technique that can be used to help manage the signs and/or symptoms associated with a compression fracture and also are used to help stabilize weakened bone. The procedure is performed by placing a large needle into the compressed vertebra. A balloon is then inserted into the bone through the needle and inflated, restoring the height of the vertebra. Sometimes specialized cement is injected into the bone to restore stability and to strengthen the vertebrae to help make sure it does not collapse again. Surgery is almost always necessary if there is neurological complications such severe pain or a loss of function due to bone pressing on the spinal cord and/or spinal nerves. If there is bone in the spinal canal, and/or if there is spinal segment instability, surgery may be required to remove bone fragments and to fuse adjacent vertebrae to stabilize the spine.

Biopsy may lead to specific treatment of underlying cancer.

PREVENTION

Treating and preventing osteoporosis is the most effective way to prevent these fractures. It is important to obtain treatment for unstable or potentially unstable compression fractures to reduce the risk for complications