Vertebral Compression Fracture

Causes of a Vertebral Compression Fracture

The most common cause of this type of condition is advancing Osteoporosis. For patients with severe osteoporosis, something as simple as bending forward can cause a vertebral compression fracture. Other possible causes are trauma, commonly a car accident and metastatic tumors in the spine. It is important to seek medical advice if you experience sudden or increasing back pain, especially if you have osteoporosis. Prompt treatment is the key to a more favorable outcome and can minimize permanent damage. To diagnose your vertebral compression fracture, your doctor may order an x-ray, CT, CAT scan, or MRI.

Vertebral Compression Fracture Symptoms

Many people may not realize they are suffering from a VCF. A vertebral compression fracture causes back pain but this is a common ailment in older men and women. If you have one or more of the following symptoms of VCF, it is important that you seek treatment.

• Abrupt occurrence of back pain
• Back pain that increases in intensity when standing up
• Back pain that decreases intensity when laying on your back (feel a sense of relief)
• Increase in pain while rotating spine (like when changing positions)
• Increase in back pain when coughing or sneezing
• Noticeably shorter in height
• Develop a deformity or disability

Vertebral Compression Fracture Treatment

Kyphoplasty, also called balloon vertebroplasty, is a minimally invasive treatment option for addressing a vertebral compression fracture, minimizing the common risks associated with a surgical procedure. Clearway offers this treatment option which can offer significant, immediate pain relief for many patients.