Back Fracture

A back fracture, also known as a vertebral fracture, can be a serious and painful injury. The fracture may result from trauma, such as a hard blow or impact on the vertebrae. Additionally, osteoporosis can contribute to fractures in the vertebrae. During treatment, you may support the vertebrae with a brace, for example. Would you like to learn more about the treatment, causes, and symptoms of a back fracture? Then keep reading.

What is a back fracture?

The spinal column consists of 33 vertebrae, providing stability and flexibility to the back. When a fracture occurs in one of the vertebrae, this is called a vertebral fracture. There are different types of fractures that can occur with a vertebral fracture:

  • Compression fracture compresses the vertebra
  • Burst fracture is a fracture where the vertebra is broken into multiple pieces
  • Flexion distraction fracture is a fracture where the vertebra is bent in half
  • Fracture dislocation is a severe fracture where the vertebra is displaced.
  • In a fracture dislocation, displacement occurs. This is a severe fracture because it can cause paralysis.
back fracture

What causes a back fracture?

There are various ways vertebrae can fracture. It's always important to discuss with a doctor how the fracture occurred. The doctor can then create a treatment plan to heal the vertebrae and determine the cause of the fracture. Possible causes of a vertebral fracture include:

  • Trauma such as a traffic accident, fall from a significant height, or sports injury
  • Osteoporosis can weaken vertebrae, making them more susceptible to fractures
  • Other medical conditions such as tumors in the vertebrae or an infection

What are the symptoms of a back fracture?

Several symptoms may occur with a back fracture. Symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the fracture. Common symptoms associated with a vertebral fracture include:

  • Severe, sudden back pain
  • Pain that worsens with movement or standing
  • Reduced mobility and stiffness in the back
  • Neurological symptoms in severe fractures, such as numbness, tingling, or paralysis
  • Change in body height due to osteoporosis-related fractures
fracture in back

How is a back fracture diagnosed?

A doctor may use several methods to diagnose a back fracture. Diagnosis begins with a physical examination. Then the doctor may perform an X-ray to identify the fracture. If necessary, a CT scan or MRI scan can be conducted to determine or exclude nerve damage.

How can you best treat a back fracture?

The treatment of a vertebral fracture depends on the severity of the fracture. Below are the treatments for stable (conservative treatment) and unstable (surgical treatment) fractures explained. Determine whether you have a stable or unstable fracture and follow these steps to recover quickly.

Conservative treatments

If the fracture is stable, there are several steps you can take to recover from the fracture as quickly as possible. For example, one thing you can do is take pain medication to reduce pain when walking. Other things you can do include:

  • Rest and limited movement, but prolonged bed rest is discouraged
  • Wear a back brace for extra support
  • Seek advice from a physical therapist to accelerate the rehabilitation process.

Surgical treatment

Listen carefully to your doctor if you have a severe fracture. The doctor can perform various treatments to realign the vertebrae and heal the fracture. Procedures your doctor might perform include:

  • Vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty. These are procedures in which bone cement is injected to stabilize the vertebra
  • Spinal fusion is surgery where two or more vertebrae are fixed together using plates or screws
  • Laminectomy involves removing part of the vertebra to relieve pressure on your spinal cord

Recovering from a back fracture

Recovery time from a back fracture averages between 6 and 12 weeks. To ensure proper recovery, you can seek guidance from a physical therapist. A physical therapist can help you adopt the correct posture when sitting and standing. Additionally, it's important to perform back-strengthening exercises so your back recovers properly in an upright position.

Ready for the recovery period?

A back fracture is a serious injury. Depending on severity, treatments may vary. Good rehabilitation and a healthy lifestyle support recovery and prevent further damage. Does your pain worsen after a fall or accident? Consult a doctor immediately.

Need support?

Have you suffered a back fracture? At Podobrace, we offer various back braces that can support you during your rehabilitation process. Questions about which brace best suits your condition? Contact our team of specialists. We are happy to help you!