In some cases, back pain is not just a part of aging. If you’re approaching 60, it’s important to be more aware of any changes you notice in your body; a simple backache could be an indication that there are tiny cracks forming on the vertebrae along your spine. Multiple hairline fractures can cause a vertebra to collapse, resulting in a spinal compression fracture. Once this occurs, your body will begin to show the effects of this condition, such as having a weakened and deformed spine, or losing height. Seeking treatment for diseases that cause this condition like osteoporosis, may not guarantee that you won’t succumb to another compression fracture, but it can significantly improve your overall spinal health.
Spinal compression fractures are quite common, especially if they are the result of osteoporosis. However, some other causes of this condition may include:
Initially, as compression fractures begin to form, you may not experience any symptoms. As the condition progresses, noticeable symptoms may include the following:
Since most cases of compression fractures can be related to underlying conditions such as osteoporosis, your doctor will likely treat that specific disorder. For instance, you may be advised to take bone-strengthening vitamins and supplements in conjunction with physical therapy and exercise to keep your bones strong and prevent fractures. Some other treatment options for compression fractures may include:
If a compression fracture is putting pressure on your spinal cord, you need to seek immediate medical attention. Dr. Lewis at Jackson Neurosurgery Clinic can provide a prompt diagnosis, in addition to innovative treatment solutions to help prevent permanent injury. With extensive training in multiple spinal treatment techniques, he has taught technical surgical courses across the country and developed specialized equipment for various procedures.
Contact us today to learn more about compression fractures or to schedule a consultation. We’ll find a solution that works for you. Call us at (601) 366-1011.