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Vertebral Compression Fracture Treatment

A vertebral compression fracture may heal on its own over several weeks or months. Traditional treatments include bed rest, external bracing, and strong pain medications. However, some patients remain in pain after these therapies and may require further treatment.

Overview

Vertebral compression fractures in the spine generally occur when a vertebral body has been weakened due to osteoporosis or the presence of a tumor. These fractures may cause severe back pain, limited mobility, and/or a "hunched-over" appearance due to the change in shape of the vertebral body.

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What Are My Treatment Options?

Vertebroplasty

Vertebroplasty is a minimally invasive procedure in which medical-grade bone cement is injected through a needle into the vertebral body.

Vertebral Augmentation

Vertebral augmentation, often called kyphoplasty, is a minimally invasive procedure to treat vertebral compression fractures. In this procedure, a cavity is created within a fractured vertebral body and medical-grade bone cement is injected into that cavity.

Causes of Back and Neck Pain

Back and neck pain is not necessarily something you have to live with. If your pain is interfering with your daily activities, such as getting in and out of bed, taking a shower or tying your shoelaces, this may be a sign it is time to seek help. Only your doctor can recommend the most appropriate treatment options.

Choosing the Right Doctor

There are many types of physicians who treat back and neck conditions. Look for a physician who specializes in diagnosing and treating spinal conditions, such as vertebral compression fractures.

HELPFUL LINKS

Anatomy of the Spine

Your spine is one of the most important parts of your body. It gives your body structure and support. Without it you could not stand up or keep yourself upright. Your spine allows you to move about freely and to bend with flexibility.

Tips for Safe Posture

It's possible that even minor changes in the way you do your work or hobby activities could keep your pain and symptoms in check while protecting your spine from further injury.

Work Place Strategies

These strategies are ideas of how to work with greater safety and even better productivity. Have you ever felt stress or tension at work? Chances are good that you wouldn't have a pain or worry if you didn't.

References

No available references.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION As with any medical treatment, individual results may vary. There are potential risks and recovery takes time. People with conditions limiting rehabilitation should not have this surgery. Only a spine surgeon can tell if spine treatment is right for you.

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