A compression fracture of the spine

Description of the compression fracture of the spine

The bones of the back are called the vertebrae, they constitute the backbone. Spine fracture – destruction of one of the bones. A compression fracture of the spine there, when the front part of the bone is compressed dramatically.

Reasons for compression fractures of the spine

Causes include injury:

• Osteoporosis – bone disease, leading to their weakening;
• Backstab;
• Drop;
• Landing on your heels when jumping from a height;
• Serious injury, received, eg, in a car accident.

Risk Factors compression fracture of the spine

In addition to injuries, the main cause of most vertebral compression fractures is osteoporosis.

Factors, that increase the risk of osteoporosis include:

• Race: white or Asian;
• Paul: female;
• Advanced age:
  • Women: 60 and older;
  • Men: 70 and older;
• Postmenopausal;
• Stroke;
• Hyperthyroidism;
• The use of some drugs:
  • Long-term use of benzodiazepines;
  • Tricyclic antidepressants;
  • Anticonvulsants;
  • Long-term steroid use;
• Limited physical activity;
• Poor diet;
• Smoking;
• The mother or grandmother had hip fractures (genetic predisposition);
• Other factors, which can increase the risk of vertebral fractures:
  • The use of antipsychotic drugs;
  • Mental Disorders;
  • Poor mobility;
  • Weak muscles;
  • The presence of vertebral fracture within the last year.

The symptoms of spinal compression fracture

Symptoms may include mild to severe pain in the middle of the back or lower back.

Diagnosis compression fracture of the spine

The doctor will ask about your symptoms, recent physical activity, will examine the injured area.

Tests may include:

• X-rays of the spine – to find the fracture site;
• MRT – test, which uses magnetic waves, to make pictures of structures inside the body;
• CT scan – kind of X-ray inspection, wherein the computer is used, to make pictures of structures inside the body;
• A bone scan – analysis, which detects the field increased or decreased activity of the bone;
• Testing of bone mineral density, to determine the presence and severity of osteoporosis.

Treatment of spinal compression fracture

Treatment may include:

Operation

For the treatment used vertebroplasty, in which the spine is introduced special cement. The procedure can alleviate the pain, associated with vertebral fractures. The procedure is best used in fractures, arisen recently. However, vertebroplasty is ineffective in patients, cause fracture which is osteoporosis.

When Applying kyfoplastyky used balloon, to create a cavity for the introduction of cement. This procedure is designed to relieve pain. It can also correct the deformity of the spine after a fracture.

Conservative treatment

The doctor may prescribe:

• A brief period of bed rest and a decrease in physical activity;
• Painkillers;
• Exercises to strengthen back muscles;
• Ties Back.

Osteoporosis treatment

Medications

To prevent further bone loss may be assigned medication:

• Zamestitelynaya gormonalynaya therapy;
• Bisfosfonatы (Alendronate, rizedronat, iʙandronat);
• Estrogen agonist / antagonist (Raloxifene);
• Calcitonin;
• PTH.

To maintain healthy bones, Your doctor may also recommend the following:

• Vitamin and mineral supplements, especially calcium and vitamin D. Studies show, the combination of calcium and vitamin D slows bone loss.
• Lifestyle changes – It may include a power exercise for the upper and lower extremities.

Preventive compression fracture of the spine

Strengthening bones will help prevent fractures. Maximum bone strength in women is achieved at the age of 25 years. This makes maintaining bone density in the elderly is very important.

• Perform exercises with light load – walking, jogging, tennis;
• Do the exercises for hands and feet. This will help increase strength and balance;
• The diet should be rich in calcium, vitamin D and protein. Talk to your doctor, if you think it necessary vitamin supplements;
• If you have osteoporosis, you should talk to your doctor about options for its treatment. If you have early menopause, talk to your doctor about it;
• Quit smoking. Drink alcohol only in moderation;
• Remove any obstructions in the house, which can lead to a drop.