Vertebral Fracture (Back Or Neck Fracture)
Description
The vertebrae are the bones in the neck and back. Fractures are broken bones. The severity of a vertebral fracture depends on the location and the area of the vertebra fractured. The most common fracture is a compression fracture of the lower thoracic and lumbar spine. These commonly occur in elderly patients and can be the result of minor trauma such as sitting down too hard. Vertebral fractures can be true emergencies, and symptoms of weakness and loss of bowel or bladder control require an immediate evaluation.
Symptoms
Back pain, chronic back pain, shortened height, hunchback (kyphosis), numbness, weakness, loss of bowel or bladder control.
Tests
A history and physical exam will be performed. A X-ray, CT scan or MRI may be done to identify the fracture.
- X-Ray
- CT Scan
- MRI
Treatment
Treatment depends on the location of the fracture, the size of the fracture. Some fractures require only pain medications and observation. Other treatment options include: kyphoplasty (injection of material into the vertebra to repair the bone), physical therapy, and surgical fixation.
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