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Conditions

Spine surgery · Spine and nerves

Vertebral compression fracture

Understand collapse of a vertebra, often related to osteoporosis or trauma.

Editorial publication · Medical review pending.

Understand

A vertebral compression fracture occurs when the body of a vertebra breaks and collapses.

Possible symptoms

It may cause sudden or gradual back pain, loss of height and a more rounded back; some fractures are found without pain.

Causes and associated factors

Osteoporosis and trauma are the most common causes; tumour or infection are less common.

Diagnosis

The circumstances, localised pain, posture and neurological examination guide diagnosis and check stability.

Tests

X-ray, CT or MRI confirms the fracture as appropriate; assessment for osteoporosis and its cause may follow.

Course of the condition

Many stable fractures heal with time, but pain, height loss or further fractures can persist if bone fragility is not treated.

Care options

Pain relief, gradual mobilisation, physiotherapy and treatment of bone fragility are central; bracing, vertebral augmentation or stabilisation are used in selected cases.

When to consult

Seek prompt assessment after a fall, sudden back pain, loss of height or a fracture after minimal force.

Urgent help

After major trauma, or with weakness, numbness, walking difficulty or loss of bladder or bowel control, call emergency services and avoid unnecessary movement.

Questions for your doctor

  • Which spinal structure explains my symptoms?
  • Which tests are actually useful?
  • Which non-surgical options can we try?
  • When would an operation be discussed?
  • Which neurological signs require emergency care?

Continue reading

A procedure linked to a condition does not establish an indication for your individual situation.

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