What is a Vertebral Compression Fracture?

What Causes a Vertebral Compression Fracture?

When osteoporosis weakens a vertebral body, coughing, bending or a minor fall may cause it to collapse. In healthy bone, road crashes and falls from height are more typical causes. Multiple fractures can gradually produce a rounded back and loss of height.

Symptoms

• Sudden back or lower back pain focused at one spinal level
• Pain increasing with standing or twisting the trunk
• Loss of height and increasing rounding of the back
• Difficulty breathing or walking in advanced deformity

Frequently Asked Questions

How is a vertebral compression fracture diagnosed?

X-rays can show loss of vertebral height; MRI may be needed to distinguish a new fracture from an old one or assess nerves. Treatment includes pain control, safe mobility, a brace and evaluation of bone loss. Surgery is considered for nerve compression or severe persistent pain.